Cracked Tooth Syndrome: Subtle Symptoms Patients Miss

Most people assume that if a tooth looks fine, it’s healthy. That’s not always the case. If you’re experiencing subtle discomfort, you could be dealing with cracked tooth pain in Baton Rouge without even realizing it. Recognizing these warning signs early can save your tooth and prevent more invasive treatments.

What is Cracked Tooth Syndrome? 

Natural teeth can become damaged in various ways. Chips and fractures are often easily visible as external damage to the tooth. However, cracks are not always readily seen. They typically are a fine line on the surface of the tooth that is too fine to be seen by the naked eye. They can also occur below the gum line or be hidden by the tooth’s natural structure. Despite the placement and size, a crack can cause discomfort or pain. It’s essential to have cracks treated as soon as possible to prevent infections, further tooth damage, a root canal, or even tooth loss. 

Causes of Cracked Teeth

Several activities can create cracks in teeth. Regularly chewing hard foods, such as nuts, ice, or candy, can create cracks. Teeth grinding puts extra stress on teeth, which can cause them to crack. Sometimes cracks occur during trauma to the mouth, such as an accident or when playing sports. Extensive tooth restoration with large fillings can weaken the overall structure of the tooth. This can lead to cracks in the remaining natural part of the tooth. 

Subtle Symptoms Patients Often Miss

Identifying symptoms is often the first signal that teeth may have cracks. The crack creates a weak point in the tooth. You may experience intermittent sharp pain that intensifies when biting and subsides when pressure is released. The tooth may feel sensitive to temperature changes, making it uncomfortable to eat foods that are hot or cold. The gum around the tooth could be swollen or irritated. There could be a dull and persistent pain in that tooth area. 

Diagnosing a Cracked Tooth

A dentist will diagnose a cracked tooth by performing a visual exam. In some cases, they may use X-rays, but these do not always show cracks. The dentist may also perform various tests to narrow down the location of the crack. 

• Bite tests
• Transillumination
• Magnification tools

Treating Cracked Tooth Pain in Baton Rouge

Once diagnosed, the dentist will create a treatment plan for the crack. This could include bonding, crowns, root canals, or extractions. The treatment recommended will depend on the size and location of the crack. The dentist will also consider the overall condition of the tooth. 

Say Goodbye to Cracked Tooth Pain in Baton Rouge

Cracked Tooth Syndrome may be subtle, but the risks are real. A root canal specialist in Baton Rouge has the tools and expertise to diagnose even the tiniest cracks and provide personalized treatment to protect your smile. Don’t ignore intermittent pain or temperature sensitivity.

Early intervention is the most effective way to prevent extensive dental work.