There’s no single cause of cracks in teeth. Some develop in an instant, after a bite into something hard. Others develop gradually, due to years of wear and tear.
In many cases, patients don't realize they have a crack until discomfort begins. Because cracks can only worsen with time and no treatment, understanding their causes can help you protect your teeth, identify potential damage when it happens, and seek timely treatment.
At Norco Family Dentistry, Dr. Shawn Buffington and our team are committed to helping patients identify and treat cracked teeth before they compromise the affected tooth and threaten their long-term oral health.
Everyday Habits Can Put Teeth Under Stress
Teeth are remarkably strong, but they are not indestructible. Even healthy teeth can develop cracks when subjected to enough force over time. After all, repeated pressure and sudden impacts can eventually create small fractures in the tooth structure.
Some of the most common causes of cracked teeth include:
- Chewing ice
- Biting down on hard candy, popcorn kernels, or pen caps
- Teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism)
- Sports injuries
- Accidents and falls
- Large, aging fillings
Warning Signs of a Cracked Tooth
Cracks are not always visible to the naked eye. In many cases, symptoms appear before patients notice any physical damage. Even so, because symptoms can be inconsistent, patients sometimes delay treatment or assume the problem has vanished when discomfort temporarily subsides. To prevent complications, keep an eye out for:
- Pain when biting down
- Increased sensitivity to hot or cold foods
- Pain that comes and goes without an obvious cause
Early Treatment Helps Protect the Tooth
The sooner a cracked tooth is diagnosed, the better the chances of preserving it. Waiting too long can allow the crack to expand, potentially leading to infection or even tooth loss in severe cases. Depending on the severity and location of the crack, treatment may be as straightforward as dental bonding, or may require a dental crown or root canal therapy.
Expert Emergency Care for Cracked Teeth in Greeley, CO
If you're in Greeley and recently damaged a tooth or are experiencing some of the symptoms we just discussed, don’t wait!
Contact Dr. Shawn Buffington and the experienced and caring Norco Family Dentistry team for prompt evaluation and treatment to protect your smile and prevent a minor crack from becoming a major problem.