What is Cracked Tooth Syndrome (CTS)?
The enamel that makes up our teeth is the hardest substance in our body. It’s even harder than bone. The wear and tear we place on our teeth through biting, grinding and trauma can cause cracks in our teeth. Sometimes the cracks are so small that they can’t be even seen by the by the naked eye, but they can still cause the pain and discomfort of Cracked Tooth Syndrome.
The symptoms that a dentist looks for when CTS is suspected are:
- pain when biting
- pain when bite is released
- pain when eating or drinking cold foods or beverages
- pain when eating or drinking sugary foods or beverages
- Although any tooth can crack, cracks usually occur to the back molars, which get a lot of use every day and can get a further workout if you grind or clench your teeth.
- Cracks can be small and only effect the outer tooth enamel, and cause no pain, or they can extend through the tooth and down into the root of the tooth and cause severe pain.
- A small crack, if not treated, can lead to a lengthening of the crack and the symptoms of CTS, including infection and pain.
How is CTS Diagnosed?
Cracked Tooth Syndrome is one of the most difficult disorders to diagnose. Often the crack in the tooth is not visible, even in an x-ray. Dentists have special tools, like microscopes, dyes and ‘bite tests’ to find a crack in a tooth and the cause of tooth pain.
How is CTS Treated?
Treatment of CTS depends on the extent of the crack, the location of the crack and the health of the effected tooth. Cracks in teeth, unlike cracks in bones, do not heal. The goal of treatment is to prevent worsening of the crack and to save the tooth.
Possible treatments include:
- Placing a crown
- Root Canal therapy
- There are instances when extraction of the tooth may be necessary, so it’s best to try to prevent cracks in teeth.
How Can CTS be Prevented?
- not clenching or grinding your teeth
- not chewing on hard objects, like ice
- wearing a mouthguard at night if you grind your teeth while you sleep
- wearing a face guard or mouth guard while paying contact sports
Get a Checkup
Getting regular dental care is the best way to keep your teeth healthy and clean and prevent CTS and other dental problems. Contact us for an appointment today.