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Five signs you have a cracked tooth

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A cracked or chipped tooth should always be fixed as soon as possible; otherwise, you risk infection or causing additional damage to the tooth. Here are five symptoms to look out for if you suspect you might have a cracked tooth.

1. Discomfort when eating

The most common sign of a cracked tooth is consistent discomfort when you chew. It is important to see your dentist any time it hurts to bite down or chew. Even if you do not have a cracked tooth, it is possible that another oral health concern is present.

2. Your teeth are sensitive to hot and cold drinks

Sensitive teeth, especially when focused on one part of your mouth, is another telltale sign of a damaged tooth. A cracked tooth is sensitive to hot and cold temperatures because the crack allows liquid to penetrate the tooth and reach the exposed nerve endings.

3. You can see the crack

While many fractures are not visible, or easy to see in the mirror, noticing a crack when you brush your teeth means it’s time to schedule an appointment with your dentist immediately.

4. The tooth changes color

A discolored tooth can be an indication that a crack has damaged the blood vessels and nerves inside a tooth. Discoloration should not be ignored.

5. Swollen or tender

Swelling or tenderness focused around a specific tooth should not be ignored. When a tooth is cracked, it can cause inflammation and irritation in the surrounding area, leading to swelling and tenderness. If the swelling persists beyond a few days, be sure to seek a professional examination.

In most cases, your dentist can repair a cracked tooth with a filling, crown or root canal, but when the tooth is broken beyond repair, it may be necessary to extract the tooth and replace it with a dental implant. Oral surgeons are experts in this procedure and can build a new tooth that looks, feels and functions just like your natural tooth.