Chipped or Cracked Tooth

The back teeth are prone to fractures and cracks, mainly through the centre of the tooth, splitting the tooth into two separate pieces. Unfortunately, the diagnosis of cracked teeth or broken teeth are at the time of occurrence, and the most common treatment option is the removal of the tooth, leading to tooth loss.
 

Chips or Cracks happen?

Sometimes teeth are predisposed and crack easier than under regular forces. Teeth that have decay or that have had root canal treatment are much easier to split and fracture. More obvious causes include chewing on hard objects or foods such as ice or nuts, other times, it may have been as a result of an accident such as a blow to the mouth.

Other reasons

Other reasons for fractures include, moreso, nocturnal clenching or grinding. Patients are typically unaware of their habits during sleep, which may cause teeth to weaken and create micro cracks. These micro-cracks over time can propagate and become more prominent, eventually causing a visible crack line.
 

Early detection is key

The problem with crack lines is that they harbor bacteria and can then predispose the tooth to future decay and possibly lead to the centre of the tooth and cause nerve problems.

There are a few tell-tale signs that patients can look out for to help with early detection and diagnosis of cracked teeth. The most obvious sign is if the patient or their partner notes clenching or grinding during their sleep. Other symptoms include sensitivity to cold and discomfort to pressure on the tooth. If you experience any of these symptoms, you must contact your dentist and book in for a consultation regarding cracked tooth management.