What Can Cause a Tooth to Crack?

Cracked teeth are unfortunately a common occurrence. While some cracks are minor, others can rapidly become a dental emergency. Understanding the causes of cracked teeth can help you prevent cracks and get prompt treatment.

Hard Foods

Chewing hard foods like nuts, candies, and ice can pressure teeth intensely. This repeated strain can cause microscopic cracks or fissures you cannot see or feel. However, these tiny cracks compromise the tooth structure. Over time, they expand into larger, visible cracks that require dental repair. Avoiding excessively tough foods protects your teeth.

Trauma

Sudden blows or accidents that impact the teeth may split them on contact. Cracks from trauma can range from tiny hairline fractures to severe fractures that require extraction. Car accidents, sports injuries, falls, and physical violence are common causes of dental trauma. See your dentist immediately if your tooth cracks due to injury. Quick treatment improves outcomes.

Grinding and Clenching

Teeth grinding or clenching, known as bruxism, applies extreme force. This force can eventually cause small stress fractures. The repetitive pressure of chronic grinding then propagates the cracks. Since people often grind and clench subconsciously, many do not realize they have bruxism until a dentist diagnoses cracked teeth. Getting a night guard prevents further damage if you suffer from bruxism.

Tooth Decay

Untreated tooth decay weakens the tooth structure. It causes empty spaces in the enamel and dentin. With a severely decayed tooth, normal chewing may cause the weakened tooth to split and fracture. You should get cavities filled before they progress and undermine the tooth’s structural integrity.

Dental Restorations

Dental fillings, crowns, and veneers usually strengthen damaged teeth. However, pre-existing cracks can sometimes extend after the placement of restorations. The preparation process for repairs also removes some enamel, which may make hidden cracks or defects apparent. Discuss any cracks with your dentist before getting dental work to prevent complications.

Aging

Enamel naturally wears down over decades of use. As we age, teeth become thinner and more susceptible to fracturing. The changes in oral acid levels and mineral content in older adults make tooth enamel more brittle. Older teeth require extra care to avoid cracks and fractures.

Orthodontic Treatment

The wires and pressure applied to teeth during orthodontic treatment, like braces, can sometimes cause cracks. Cracks are more likely if the teeth already have pre-existing defects. Let your orthodontist know immediately if you notice any cracks form during treatment. They can adjust the treatment plan to prevent further cracks.

When to Seek Treatment

Not all cracked teeth require immediate treatment. However, it is vital to have your dentist evaluate any cracked tooth. Minor cracks may need monitoring and protective treatments. Moderately cracked teeth benefit from dental bonding, crowns, or extraction if the crack extends below the gumline. Severely cracked teeth often need extraction to prevent infection. Leaving a significantly cracked tooth untreated can have serious consequences, so do not delay dental evaluation.

See your dentist right away if you notice a cracked tooth. Getting prompt care maximizes the chances of salvaging your natural tooth structure. Visit John K. See, DDS, at our office in Camarillo, California. Call (805) 920-8600 to schedule an appointment today.