Signs You May Have a Tooth Broken Below the Gumline
Posted on 1/1/2025 by Office - Dr. Anthony Hoffman
Have you noticed a sharp pain when biting into something hard? Do you experience sensitivity to hot or cold food or drinks? These could be signs of a cracked tooth, even if the crack isn't visible above the gum line.
Cracked teeth can be a serious problem. If left untreated, they can progress and cause more significant damage to your tooth, leading to the need for extensive restorative dentistry or even tooth extraction. That's why it's crucial to be aware of the signs of a cracked tooth and to seek prompt dental care if you suspect you have one.
In this article, we'll explore the signs and symptoms of a cracked tooth below the gumline and what you can do about it. We'll also discuss the importance of maintaining good oral care habits to prevent cracked teeth in the first place.
Signs and Symptoms
A cracked tooth below the gumline can be difficult to diagnose because the crack may not be visible during a visual examination. However, there are several signs and symptoms that may indicate the presence of a cracked tooth:
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Sharp pain when biting: This is one of the most common symptoms of a cracked tooth. The pain can occur when you bite down on something hard, chew, or even simply close your mouth.
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Sensitivity to hot or cold: You may experience sensitivity to hot or cold food or drinks, or even to the air. This is because the crack can expose the inner layer of the tooth, known as the dentin, which is more sensitive than the outer layer (enamel).
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Swelling or tenderness in the gums: The gums around the cracked tooth may be swollen or tender. This is because the inflammation caused by the crack can spread to the surrounding tissues.
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A bad taste in your mouth: This can occur if the crack has exposed the pulp of the tooth, which contains nerves and blood vessels.
Causes of Cracked Teeth Below the Gumline
Several factors can contribute to cracked teeth below the gumline:
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Biting down on hard objects: This can happen when you bite on ice, hard candy, or even bones.
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Trauma to the mouth: A blow to the face or jaw can cause a tooth to crack.
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Teeth grinding or clenching: This can put a lot of stress on your teeth and make them more susceptible to cracking.
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Large fillings: Fillings can weaken the tooth and make it more likely to crack.
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Previous dental work: Crowns or other dental work can also weaken the tooth and make it more susceptible to cracking.
Diagnosis and Treatment
If you suspect you have a cracked tooth below the gumline, it's essential to see a dentist as soon as possible. The dentist will perform a thorough examination of your teeth and gums, including taking X-rays, to determine if you have a cracked tooth and where it is located.
The treatment for a cracked tooth below the gumline will depend on the severity of the crack. In some cases, the crack may be small enough to heal on its own. However, if the crack is more severe, the dentist may need to perform a root canal or extract the tooth.
Prevention
There are several things you can do to prevent cracked teeth below the gumline:
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Avoid biting down on hard objects.
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Wear a mouthguard if you play sports.
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See your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.
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Maintain good oral care habits, including brushing twice a day and flossing daily.
Conclusion
A cracked tooth below the gumline can be a serious problem. By being aware of the signs and symptoms and seeking prompt dental care, you can help prevent further damage and save your tooth. Maintaining good oral care habits is also essential for preventing cracked teeth in the first place.
Have you noticed a sharp pain when biting into something hard? Do you experience sensitivity to hot or cold food or drinks? These could be signs of a cracked tooth, even if the crack isn't visible above the gum line.
