Cracked teeth are a common type of dental injury. Cracks can develop in teeth from injuries like blows or falls, due to teeth grinding, or even just from normal wear and tear if the tooth is heavily decayed. How can you tell if your tooth is cracked? Look for the signs below.
How to Identify a Cracked Tooth
You can sometimes see signs of a cracked tooth just by looking at it. The tooth may be clearly broken or have a fine line running through it that develops staining over time.
However, many cracks are impossible to see with the naked eye. You’ll need to perform a bite test to find these hidden cracks. Bite down firmly, then slowly release your bite. Do you feel a sharp pain when releasing? If so, you may have a crack in the tooth that’s bothering you.
What Can You Do for a Cracked Tooth at Home?
There’s no way to fix a cracked tooth on your own – you’ll need your dentist’s help to treat the problem properly. However, there are a few things you can do to make your cracked tooth less painful while you wait for your appointment.
- Apply a cold compress to your jaw. Wrap an ice pack in a towel and hold it against your face near where the cracked tooth is located.
- Use a saltwater or hydrogen peroxide rinse. Mix half a teaspoon of salt or some hydrogen peroxide into a cup of warm water, then swish the mixture around in your mouth. This will help remove debris from around your cracked tooth and disinfect the area.
- Keep a cotton ball soaked in clove oil against your tooth. Clove oil contains natural painkillers that will numb your tooth pain. Keep the cotton ball in your mouth for 15 to 20 minutes before removing it.
- Use over-the-counter dental pain relievers such as Orajel. These products contain topical painkillers and numbing agents that will reduce your discomfort.
Let Us Help You Fix Your Cracked Tooth
If you think you have a cracked tooth, don’t wait to call your dentist. The longer it goes untreated, the more likely it is that the crack will grow or develop decay along its margins.
Our staff here at Coscarella Family Dentistry will diagnose and treat your cracked teeth, putting a stop to any developing complications. Contact us today to set up an appointment and get your cracked tooth trouble taken care of for good.
