Fractured Tooth? Uncover the Common Causes of This Dental Emergency

Accidents happen when we least expect them, and when they involve your smile, it can quickly turn into a dental emergency! A fractured or cracked tooth is a common dental mishap that can cause panic, discomfort, and—let’s face it—a major inconvenience. So, what exactly causes a tooth to crack, and what should you do if it happens to you?

Whether you’re an athlete, a snacker, or simply someone who grinds their teeth at night, understanding the causes of a fractured tooth is key to preventing this dental emergency. If it does happen, you need to know that the best course of action is to call an emergency dentist to save your tooth and ease your pain. Let’s dive into the most common causes of a cracked tooth and why timely action is critical.

Common Causes of a Fractured Tooth

1. Biting Down on Hard Foods

We all have that friend who loves chomping down on ice cubes or the occasional popcorn kernel, but did you know that biting down on hard substances is a leading cause of fractured teeth? Hard candies, nuts, and even tough crusty bread can exert tremendous force on your teeth, especially if your enamel is already weakened.

When you bite down with too much pressure on something hard, your tooth may not be able to withstand the stress, resulting in a crack. If this happens, don’t panic. Call your emergency dentist in Spring Hill, FL, immediately to get a quick diagnosis and prevent further damage.

2. Trauma or Accidents

Dental injuries can occur when you least expect them. Whether you’re playing a contact sport, involved in a car accident, or simply slip and fall, physical trauma to the mouth is a major cause of fractured teeth. It doesn’t have to be a full-blown accident either—even a small impact can sometimes be enough to cause a crack in your tooth.

Wearing a mouthguard during sports is a great way to protect your teeth from trauma, but accidents can still happen. If you’re experiencing a toothache or sensitivity after a bump to the mouth, don’t wait. Seek help from an emergency dentist in Spring Hill, FL, before the issue worsens.

3. Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)

Teeth grinding is an issue that affects many people, often without them even realizing it. If you’re a habitual grinder, especially while sleeping, the constant pressure and friction can wear down your tooth enamel and eventually cause cracks. The tiny cracks that start small can expand over time if the grinding continues, leading to significant damage.

Not sure if you grind your teeth? Pay attention to symptoms like jaw pain, frequent headaches, or flattened teeth. If bruxism is a problem for you, your dentist may suggest wearing a night guard to protect your teeth. If you notice any cracks, an emergency dentist can evaluate the damage and offer solutions before it turns into a bigger issue.

4. Old Dental Work

Got a filling or crown that’s seen better days? Old or worn-out dental work can weaken over time, leading to a cracked tooth. Fillings and crowns are meant to protect damaged teeth, but they aren’t invincible. If they deteriorate or become loose, your tooth can be vulnerable to cracking under pressure.

Routine dental check-ups are essential to make sure your previous dental work is in good shape. If you notice any discomfort, or if something doesn’t feel right with your crown or filling, see your emergency dentist before a crack sneaks up on you.

5. Extreme Temperature Changes

Ever taken a bite of hot soup and followed it up with an ice-cold drink? Your teeth expand when exposed to heat and contract when exposed to cold. Subjecting them to extreme temperature changes in quick succession can stress the enamel, sometimes causing small cracks. While this might seem like a rare cause, it’s still possible, especially if your teeth are already weakened from decay or previous dental work.

If you think your teeth have been through too many temperature extremes, be mindful of any sudden tooth sensitivity. Your emergency dentist in Spring Hill, FL, can help diagnose whether any cracks have formed.

Signs of a Fractured Tooth

Not all cracks are easy to spot. In fact, some can be so tiny they are nearly invisible to the naked eye. However, there are several signs that may indicate a fractured tooth:

• Pain when biting or chewing: If you feel a sharp pain when you bite down, but it quickly subsides, it could be a sign of a crack.
• Sensitivity to hot and cold: Increased sensitivity, when eating hot or cold food may indicate a crack in the tooth.
• Swelling around the tooth: If you notice any swelling or tenderness in your gums around the tooth, it could mean the crack is deeper, or infection has set in.
• Intermittent pain: Cracked teeth don’t always hurt constantly. Pain that comes and goes is another red flag.

What to Do If You Suspect a Cracked Tooth?

The moment you suspect you’ve cracked a tooth, the first thing to do is don’t panic. Even though a cracked tooth can be alarming, timely treatment can save your tooth and prevent further complications. Follow these steps to ensure you’re taking the right course of action:

1. Rinse your mouth: Use warm water to gently rinse out your mouth and keep the area clean.
2. Apply a cold compress: If there is swelling, a cold compress on the outside of your cheek can help reduce inflammation.
3. Call your emergency dentist: Don’t wait to see if the pain goes away. Call your dentist immediately to schedule an emergency appointment.
4. Avoid chewing on the affected side: Until you see your dentist, avoid putting pressure on the cracked tooth to prevent further damage.

When you crack a tooth, immediate care is essential. Without prompt attention, the crack could worsen, and you could be at risk for infections, increased pain, or even tooth loss. An emergency dentist can assess the severity of the crack and determine the best course of treatment, whether that’s a filling, crown, or even a root canal if necessary. Your smile is important, so don’t take chances with a fractured tooth. If you’re in the Spring Hill area and experience a dental emergency, call us for fast, reliable care. We’ll have you smiling again in no time!