Cracked teeth do not always cause obvious or constant pain, which makes it easy to overlook them. At Signature Smiles in Cary, NC, we see patients who have had a cracked tooth for some time without realizing it. Here are the most common signs to watch for.
Tooth Pain That Comes and Goes
A cracked tooth often causes pain that is inconsistent. You may feel a sharp sensation when biting down or chewing, but it may disappear shortly after. This on-and-off pattern is one of the most telling signs of a crack.
Tooth Sensitivity to Temperature
Sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks is common with cracked teeth. The key indicator is sensitivity that lingers after you remove the hot or cold source. Brief sensitivity that fades quickly is less concerning than sensitivity that stays for several seconds or longer.
Pain When You Release Your Bite
A sharp pain, specifically when you stop chewing, rather than when you bite down, is a typical sign of a cracked tooth. This sensation occurs because, as you release your bite, the crack flexes slightly.
Swelling or Discomfort Around a Specific Tooth
Localized swelling or tenderness in the gum around one tooth may be a sign that a crack has progressed toward the root and requires prompt attention.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, call Signature Smiles in Cary, NC, at (919) 803-0168 to schedule an evaluation with your dentist.