Feb
A cracked tooth can sometimes be treated as a minor and mostly cosmetic concern by dental patients in Augusta, Georgia. This is especially true if there is no pain or discomfort associated with the crack. However, cracked tooth syndrome is something that should be looked at by your local endodontist as soon as possible. Drs. Emmanuel Ngoh and Mauro Correa at Augusta Endodontic Center stress how damaging a cracked tooth can be to an individual’s oral health. This makes knowing the symptoms of a cracked tooth important so you can seek treatment as soon as possible.
One of the most obvious symptoms of a cracked tooth is irregular pain or discomfort. The severity of the pain can vary, ranging from mild sensitivity to sharp, shooting pain. You might notice the discomfort when biting or chewing. The inconsistency of the pain can make it challenging to pinpoint the issue, underscoring the importance of seeking professional dental treatment.
A cracked tooth can lead to increased sensitivity, especially to temperature changes. You may experience increased discomfort when consuming hot or cold beverages, and even exposure to air can trigger a sharp twinge of pain. This sensitivity is a red flag that warrants attention, as it could indicate a crack affecting the tooth’s protective enamel.
In some cases, the cracks in a tooth may be visible to the naked eye. Inspect your teeth regularly, and if you notice any visible lines, fractures, or irregularities on the tooth surface, it’s essential to consult with your dentist promptly. Remember that not all cracks are immediately visible; some may require dental imaging techniques for accurate diagnosis.
A cracked tooth can lead to inflammation in the surrounding gums. If you observe any swelling or are experiencing tenderness in the area of your gums around a tooth, it could be a sign that there’s an issue beneath the surface. Inflammation may also be accompanied by localized redness, indicating that the cracked tooth is impacting the gum tissues.
Cracked teeth often exhibit increased pain or discomfort during chewing. If you find yourself avoiding certain foods or favoring one side of your mouth while chewing, it could be an instinctive response to the pain caused by the crack. Ignoring this symptom may exacerbate the issue and potentially lead to further damage.
A cracked tooth may create an avenue for bacteria to infiltrate the tooth’s inner layers, leading to infection. This can result in an unpleasant taste or odor emanating from the affected tooth. If you notice an unexplained bad taste in your mouth, it’s essential to have your dentist investigate the source to rule out a cracked tooth.
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms presented above, it is essential that you seek professional assistance as soon as possible. While these symptoms may indicate a cracked tooth, there could also be other issues.
If you are seeking endodontic assistance in the Augusta, GA, area, you can reach out to Drs. Emmanuel Ngoh and Mauro Correa at Augusta Endodontic Center by calling (706) 800-9118.
Dr. Emmanuel Ngoh has over 20 years of experience in dentistry. An alumnus of the Medical College of Georgia’s Schools of Dentistry and Allied Health and Kennesaw State University, he practiced as a General Dentist for four years before specializing in endodontics. He founded Augusta Endodontic Center to fulfill the endodontic needs of patients in the area.
Dr. Ngoh is a member of the American Association of Endodontists, American Dental Association, Christian Medical and Dental Association, Georgia Dental Association, and Augusta Dental Society. He is a Faculty Member of the Georgia Regents University, College of Dental Medicine and has contributed to many research projects and journals. His efforts have been recognized with many awards and being voted as one of Augusta‘s Top Dentists by the Augusta Magazine.