Cracked Tooth

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Cracked Tooth

A cracked tooth can be subtle, something your dentist recognizes during a routine dental checkup. Other cracked teeth are obvious and indicate that you have a serious oral health problem that needs attention right away. Whatever the circumstances, a cracked tooth is a dental emergency that requires immediate attention from your Ladson, SC, dentist at Ingleside Family Dental.

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cracked tooth causes

Potential Causes Of A Cracked Tooth

Tooth enamel is super strong and durable, but it can break under the wrong kind of pressure. In most cases, you know the exact moment the problem occurs, and in other cases the crack may develop gradually. Either way, you have a problem.

Some of the most common causes of a cracked tooth are:

  • Biting down wrong on a hard food
  • Chronic teeth grinding
  • Deteriorating dental work
  • Taking a hit to the mouth
  • Using your teeth to open something

All Cracked Teeth Are A Dental Emergency

Hairline cracks can develop on the outer tooth enamel, but they can also start within the depths of a tooth. If your dentist doesn’t find the problem first at a checkup, you certainly will when you experience sharp pain while eating or find yourself with a throbbing toothache. In the latter, the problem is often because bacteria infiltrated the tooth and caused an infection.

When you arrive for a dental emergency appointment, your dentist will examine your mouth, take x-rays, and deliver a diagnosis so the problem can be addressed as quickly as possible. It’s important to determine how deep the problem goes so the right repair can follow, including solutions like:

  • Cosmetic tooth bonding: A small surface crack on a tooth can be filled with cosmetic tooth bonding which protects the tooth from deterioration or invasion.
  • Dental crown: A large crack needs a large repair, and a dental crown covers the entire tooth. The crown is customized to blend in with the rest of your teeth to look natural.
  • Root canal therapy: Tooth pain is a sign that a cracked tooth has become infected. To stop this pain, the infected pulp is removed and the root canals are cleaned and filled to deliver relief. Then the tooth is capped with a dental crown.
  • Tooth extraction: In the very worst case, when a tooth is so deeply damaged inside or outside that it cannot be repaired with a dental restoration, tooth extraction may be necessary. This is always your dentist’s last choice.
cracked tooth emergency
cracked tooth mouthguard

Ways To Prevent A Cracked Tooth

Sometimes, a cracked tooth just happens. The enamel may be weak or there is an area that is hit the wrong way at the wrong time. In most cases, though, cracked teeth can be avoided if you prioritize your oral health:

  • See your dentist every six months: Never miss a dental checkup and cleaning. A cracked tooth can be diagnosed early before it has any chance to cause problems.
  • Get a customized mouthguard: If you grind your teeth every night, your chances of cracked teeth go up tremendously. A mouthguard offers protection from cracks and other uncomfortable side effects of teeth grinding like headaches and pain.
  • Be careful about what you eat: Some foods seem like they’re designed to break teeth, so make good choices before you bite down on a piece of ice or hard candy.
  • Don’t use your teeth as a tool: Scissors and knives are intended for opening packages, not teeth. You can crack a tooth in a heartbeat if you bite down on something that isn’t food.

Get Emergency Dental Care For A Cracked Tooth From Your Ladson Dentist

If you have a cracked tooth, take it seriously. Contact Ingleside Family Dental in Ladson, SC right away and find out if you need an emergency dental visit.

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4.9
Landis W.
Landis W.
I had an excellent first experience at Ingleside Dental. The cleaning and filling performed today was painless and the staff was very attentive to my needs. They fixed a damaged front tooth and gave me confidence in my smile once again. I have follow up appointments for additional work, and I’m confident that they will take care of all my dental needs!!
Lidalur L.
Lidalur L.
My mom doesn’t speak English, and she needed an urgent molar extraction (#2 molar) due to severe pain. When I called Ingleside Family Dental, where she is a patient and Dr. Mathew was amazing and offered to come at early the following day. They provided next-day care and were incredibly patient, making sure my mom felt comfortable even with the language barrier. The procedure was quick and professional, and the staff made sure I understood everything so I could explain it to her. Thanks to Dr. Mathew and the team, my mom is recovering well. I’m so grateful for their kindness and expertise — highly recommend them!
Stephanie W.
Stephanie W.
The staff at Ingleside Family Dental is always friendly and welcoming. Dr. Mathew is truly compassionate and always makes sure you're comfortable and happy with your results.
Sudu S.
Sudu S.
Great location, best Doctor, great and helpful staff. Had an emergency and Dr. Mathews was able to resolve it early March 2024. Have been on preventive maintenance. Highly recommend.
Vira K.
Vira K.
I can't say enough good things about Dr. Mathew at Ingleside Family Dental! I was in severe pain and needed urgent care, and they were able to see me the very next morning by coming to the clinic at 6 am before all the other patients. Dr. Mathew was so compassionate and professional—she made the whole experience of having my #2 molar removed surprisingly easy. The procedure was quick, efficient, and practically painless, and I felt genuinely cared for every step of the way. The whole team was friendly, and the office had a welcoming, calm atmosphere that made a tough situation much better. If you’re in need of a dentist who truly prioritizes patient care and efficiency, look no further than Dr. Mathew and Ingleside Family Dental! Highly recommend!
Tima D.
Tima D.
Dr. Mathew was wonderful and Mrs. Joy kept me company while I waited Dr. Matthew took her time with me and was kind!!! I will recommend this dentist office to my family and friends 🧡 I'll be back thank you again and see you soon
Denise C.
Denise C.
My name is Denise I took my husband to this Dentist lord she knows her stuff. Thank you so much
Maryanne C K.
Maryanne C K.
Had an emergency they took me in immediately great understanding worked with me great people
Tiffany N.
Tiffany N.
Dr. Matthews and her staff are caring snd helpful. I started coming here over 2 years ago after a bad experience with another dentist. They helped me and restored my hope in dentist.
Beverly K.
Beverly K.
My dental appointment was perfect today! My Dental Hygienist, Miss. April is second to none!! She displays professionalism 💯 She's knowledgeable, kind, respectful and truly caring. Book your appointment today :)
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