Cracked Teeth

Q: Can a tooth crack?



A: Though tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the human body, and teeth do pretty tough work, a tooth is absolutely capable of cracking. A crack can develop suddenly. For instance, let's say you chew on a popcorn kernel, a pencil, an ice cube, hard candy-any of a number of really hard objects-if you hit it at the right angle, you could crack a tooth. Also, teeth are under tremendous pressure, given their roles as food processors and the grinding you may put them through. Over time, they can weaken and crack even without chewing on any of the hard objects mentioned above. In fact, if you have a tooth that is overly sensitive to hot and cold, it may be cracked.



Cracks can vary in length. If a crack is above the gum line, a piece of tooth may break off. Drs. Chips may be able to treat it with a filling or a crown. If the crack extends down into the root, Drs. Chips may reccommend a root canal or periodontal surgery. Generally there is no guarantee, regardless of the work that is done, that a cracked tooth can ultimately be saved. Call Chips Dental Associates and schedule an appointment today to discuss any questions you might have about cracked teeth.



Brought to you as a community service by Chips Dental Associates.

For more information or questions, please visit us on the web at http://www.chipsdentalllc.com/.