Wondering what the next steps are after you crack a tooth? We are here to advise you on whether a dental crown would solve your problem in Langhorne, PA. This begins with a detailed consultation to evaluate whether a dental crown is the right fix for you. We use advanced technology to assess the extent of the damage and determine whether this is the next best step.
3 Reasons a Dental Crown Is Necessary
- Pain While Biting — Sharp pain when biting or when you release your bite signals that the crack is deep enough to reach the dentin, the layer under the enamel. This can create more sensitivity and is a tell-tale sign you need a dental crown for your tooth.
- Deep Crack — We evaluate how deep the crack on your tooth is; if it is above the gumline, that is “safe,” and a dental crown will be the solution. You should not wait to get a dental crown because daily chewing forces can push the crack deeper into the root, and at that point a dental crown won't be able to solve the problem. A crown acts as a barrier and can withstand daily chewing forces, protecting your tooth.
- Temperature Sensitivity — If you're experiencing sensitivity with hot, cold, or sweet foods, this is a sign that your cracked tooth has reached the inner nerves of your tooth, meaning the protective seal is broken. If this sensation only lasts for a second, a dental crown can help protect and restore the barrier of your tooth.
When a Dental Crown Is Not Necessary
Craze-Lines — These lines are a normal part of aging and daily wear and tear. They can become more visible over time due to teeth grinding, a misaligned bite, or chewing on hard objects. These may look like cracks because they are vertical lines and are usually most visible on your front teeth. They can absorb pigments from food or drinks. If you don't like how these look on you, a dental crown is not the fix; you can cosmetically treat these lines with teeth whitening, dental bonding, or veneers.
Minor Enamel Chips — This can happen to your tooth when a tiny piece of the outer enamel shell breaks off. It may happen due to sudden micro-trauma like biting down on a hard piece of food, a sports collision, or using your teeth to open something. This can leave a sharp, jagged edge on your tooth and can irritate or scratch your gums or tongue. Since this is a minor problem, a dental crown isn't the solution; we look into other options such as smoothing down the sharp edge of your tooth or dental bonding.
When To Choose Us For a Dental Crown
We want to give you up-front and honest care and opinions. With cracked teeth, you can never be too sure whether it's an emergency; at Desai Dental Care, we can help you make the correct call and get your cracked tooth fixed. Come into our office for your cracked tooth consultation in Langhorne, PA.