Introduction:
You can crack a tooth by chewing on ice or some other hard object. Getting in the habits of grinding or clenching your teeth together can also cause cracks. It is most important that you get dental attention as soon as you know your tooth has been compromised.
The crack in your tooth may extend from the surface through to the root. If this is the case the pulp of the tooth will be affected.
Symptoms:
At first you may experience temporary pain when you try to chew your food and your tooth will be sensitive to hot or cold substances, but a cracked tooth will eventually hurt constantly until you have it fixed.
Diagnosis:
Your dentist will outline the crack in your tooth with a simple dye. He will then shine a light on it. The light won’t shine through a cracked tooth.
Treatment:
If the pulp has been influenced you will need a root canal treatment after which your dentist will restore your tooth by installing a crown.