Why You Should Replace a Cracked Tooth Immediately – Advice from a Northbrook Dentist

Your teeth can end up chipped or cracked due to a variety of causes. In many cases you might not even be able to see the crack, you’ll just experience pain in a specific tooth that comes and goes. If you have a cracked tooth it’s important to see your Northbrook dentist to have the problem addressed as soon as possible.

Your trusted dentist in Northborook, IL will tell you that cracked teeth can be very problematic and lead to worse problems if not treated properly. While some small cracks only cause pain while chewing or during fluctuations in temperature, others can cause constant, debilitating pain. No matter your pain level, fixing your cracked tooth is of the utmost importance.

Cracked teeth are typically restored by the placement of a crown. The tooth is covered above the gum line by the crown which serves the purpose of holding the tooth together and preventing the crack from growing. Occasionally, if the crack has already damaged the tissue inside the tooth, a root canal is necessary. The root canal removes the infected pulp and nerve before placing a crown.

Small cracks that you can’t even see or that are only occasionally painful need to be addressed immediately as well. As the American Dental Association suggests, small cracks, if left untreated and neglected, can grow and eventually spread to the root. In extreme cases your dentist may not be able to save the tooth and it might have to be extracted.

Fortunately, a timely visit to a Northbrook dental practice can get your cracks fixed before too much damage is caused. Detailed cleanings not only can help detect invisible cracks but can also help prevent future cracking in vulnerable teeth, so be sure to have regular checkups. The sooner you have your cracked tooth. fixed, the easier it will be for you and your dentist.

If you have any other questions about cracked teeth, or about oral hygiene in general, reach out to Steven Kacel, D.D.S., M.A.G.D., F.A.D.I. and his friendly staff at his Northbrook Dental office who will happily answer any questions you may have. Call (847) 457-0400 to make an appointment today.