Dental Checkups & Cleans

What is your tooth built of?

A tooth is made of three main layers:

  • Enamel: The hard, outer layer that protects the tooth from damage.
  • Dentin: The middle layer beneath the enamel, which supports the tooth and carries sensations like temperature.
  • Pulp: The innermost part of the tooth contains nerves and blood vessels, responsible for nourishing the tooth and sensing pain.

What can cause a tooth to fracture?

  • Trauma from falls, sports injuries, or accidents
  • Biting on hard objects, like candy or using teeth to open bottles
  • Tooth decay, which weakens the tooth’s structure
  • Parafunctional habits, such as grinding or clenching teeth
  • Enamel defects, like severe hypoplasia, that weaken enamel and increase the risk of fractures

What are the signs you might notice if you have a cracked tooth?

  • If your tooth is cracked, you may experience the following signs:
  • Sharp pain when biting down or chewing, which may come and go.
  • Increased sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks.
  • Discomfort or pain that is difficult to pinpoint, making it hard to identify the exact tooth.
  • Swelling of the gum around the affected tooth.
  • A feeling of roughness on the surface of the tooth with your tongue.

If you have a Chipped or Cracked tooth, contact Reneu Smiles today to make an appointment

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Frequently Asked Questions

No, a cracked tooth cannot heal on its own. Once a tooth is cracked, it requires professional dental care to prevent further damage or infection. Depending on the severity, treatments like fillings, crowns, or root canals may be needed to repair the tooth.

Treatment options depend on the extent of the crack:

  • Minor cracks may only require smoothing or polishing.
  • Moderate cracks typically need a filling or bonding to restore the tooth.
  • Severe cracks may require a crown to protect and strengthen the tooth.
  • In extreme cases, such as when the crack extends to the pulp, a root canal or even extraction may be necessary.

To prevent cracked teeth:

  • Avoid biting on hard objects like ice, pens, or hard candy.
  • Wear a mouthguard if you grind your teeth or play contact sports.
  • Maintain good oral hygiene to avoid tooth decay, which can weaken teeth.
  • Do not use your teeth to open packages or bottles.

If left untreated, a cracked tooth can worsen over time, leading to: 

  • Increased pain or sensitivity. 
  • Infection or abscess in the pulp. 
  • Tooth decay or the need for more invasive treatments like root canals or extractions. Ultimately, untreated cracks can lead to tooth loss.