By Arthur Kezian
If your dentist has started talking about cracked tooth syndrome, don't panic. It may sound like a scary disease, but it's actually very easy to fix.
In the meantime, here's what you need to know about it:
1. The "cracks" are really tiny fractures
Perhaps a better name would be "Fractured Tooth Syndrome" because that's what you're really dealing with -- tiny fractures that can either be minor or go all the way to your nerve endings.
Unlike the typical fracture you're probably thinking of, these fractures are tiny -- so tiny, in fact, that your dentist may not be able to spot them on an x-ray. Instead, he'll need to use special tools to find them.
2. You'll be in random pain
Some dental problems create constant pain until they're taken care of, but that's not the case with Cracked Tooth Syndrome. Instead, these fractures only cause pain when you're eating -- but won't make every meal painful. You may be sensitive to hot and cold foods, or you may only be in pain during certain meals. Because the pain is so random, Cracked Tooth Syndrome can be difficult to diagnose.
The only thing that isn't random is when the pain stops. If you're suffering from cracked tooth syndrome, the pain will stop when you stop eating.
3. Some teeth are more susceptible to it than others
Typically, tiny fractures are seen in the bottom molars, because those are the teeth you use most for chewing.
However, if you have a filling in one of your teeth, it can make that tooth more vulnerable to fractures -- simply because the integrity of the tooth has already been compromised.
Additionally, if your teeth are out of alignment, it can make all of them more susceptible to Cracked Tooth Syndrome, because you're putting uneven pressure on your teeth every time you bite down on something. This can be fixed ahead of time to prevent getting dental crowns.
4. Bad habits can make it worse
If you grind or clench your teeth, you have a higher chance of developing Cracked Tooth Syndrome. Same goes for chewing on ice and pens.
5. Porcelain crowns are the easiest -- and most common -- fix
When you get a dental crown your dentist will fit "caps" over each affected tooth. As a result, your fractured tooth is protected from additional damage.
6. Some teeth can't be saved
If your fracture is severe enough -- especially if it goes all the way to the root of your tooth -- even the best Los Angeles dentist may not be able to save your tooth. As a result, you'll have to have the tooth replaced with a dental implant. Luckily, a good dentist can make your implant look completely natural!
Dr. Arthur A. Kezian DDS 443 N. Larchmont Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90004 (323) 467-2777
-N.S.
