Teeth are made up of enamel, which is considered to be the strongest material in the human body. Considering the fact that its regularly exposed to many harsh materials, whether they be acidic or pigmentated in nature, it’s pretty important that they stay healthy. But what happens when your tooth cracks? Are you able to recognize the symptoms?
If you aren’t sure if you have cracked tooth in Sunnyvale, take a moment to go over these symptoms and steps to treat your tooth until getting professional help.
Pain While Eating
Most people who experience cracked teeth cannot chew properly because of significant pain while biting down. To better locate the damaged tooth, try chewing on both sides of your mouth so you can be prepared for your endodontic visit.
Sensitivity to Sweets
When teeth are cracked, it typically means that the dentin and even pulp layers of tooth have become exposed. Sugar is particularly harmful to these sensitive areas, so eating a sweet treat will more than likely result in pain or discomfort.
Sensitivity to Extreme Temperatures
Teeth are naturally susceptible to sensitivity caused by extremely hot or cold foods and beverages. Sensitivity may also occur if you live in a colder climate and chilly air hits your teeth. Regardless of the source, teeth that feel extremely sensitive while exposed to hot and cold stimuli typically means they have been cracked in some way. If the sensitivity doesn’t go away, it’s important to seek treatment as soon as possible.
Waves of Pain
Just like with sensitivity, tooth pain that appears and goes away consistently is a sign that a tooth is cracked and exposed to bacteria throughout the day. If you only experience pain upon waking up, it could be caused by chronic teeth grinding or bruxism, which commonly occurs while sleeping. Grinding and clenching of teeth can easily wear down enamel, eventually resulting in a cracked tooth.
How to Treat Your Cracked Tooth
To prepare for your endodontic visit, rinse your mouth out with either plain warm water, saline solution, or a formula made from equal parts water and hydrogen peroxide. If you experience any swelling as a result of the damaged tooth, apply an ice pack to your cheek in 20-minute intervals. If the tooth is cracked from trauma and bleeding, use a gauze pad to cover the tooth. Avoid chewing on the side of your mouth where the pain is emitting. Additionally, avoid eating or drinking the following foods and beverages:
- Soda, alcohol or coffee
- Cold beverages
- Nuts, celery or foods that can easily get stuck in between teeth
- Chewy foods
- Fruits with seeds in them
- Sugar-filled foods
Are you experiencing pain caused by a cracked tooth? Not sure if your cracked tooth is a dental emergency? Don’t hesitate to contact an endodontist in Sunnyvale today!
About Endodontic Associates
The professionals at Endodontic Associates are able to restore teeth damaged in a number of ways, including cracks caused by trauma, decay and other causes. Whether it’s split, fractured, or damaged in another way, the best thing you can do is visit their office for treatment. To get your issue handled, you can contact them through their website.
