Fractured teeth can often go unnoticed, leading to further dental complications if not properly addressed. Understanding the signs of a fractured tooth can save you from pain, discomfort, and long-term damage. At Highlands Ranch Periodontics and Dental Implants, we want to help you maintain good oral health, and recognizing a fractured tooth early is essential.

This blog post will discuss six telltale signs you may have a fractured tooth. 

1. Pain and Sensitivity 

One of the most obvious signs of a fractured tooth is pain or sensitivity when biting down. The pressure of chewing or biting down on a cracked tooth can cause the fracture to temporarily separate, leading to pain or discomfort. You might also experience sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and beverages. 

2. Trouble Locating the Source of Pain 

A fractured tooth can often cause sharp, localized pain, but it might not be easy to pinpoint the exact tooth or location. This phenomenon is commonly known as “referred pain” and can make identifying the source of the pain quite challenging. 

3. Swelling in the Gums 

Swollen, inflamed gums near a fractured tooth can indicate a more significant issue. When a fracture goes untreated, it can lead to an infection in the surrounding gum tissue, causing swelling and discomfort. 

4. Tooth Discoloration 

A discolored tooth could be a sign that it’s fractured, as the inner pulp becomes damaged and causes the tooth to take on a darker, grayish color. If you notice a sudden discoloration in one of your teeth without any apparent cause, it might be worth scheduling a dental checkup. 

5. Floss Catching or Fraying 

If your dental floss consistently catches or frays on a specific tooth, a small fracture might be causing the issue. Regular flossing can help you identify abnormalities and ensure your dental health remains a priority. 

6. Visible Crack or Chip

In some cases, you might be able to see the fracture or chip in your tooth. Regularly inspecting your teeth in the mirror for any visible cracks or chips can help you catch the issue early on.

Types of Tooth Fractures

If you have tooth pain and suspect that you may have a fractured tooth, it’s important to seek professional help as soon as possible. At Highlands Ranch Periodontics and Dental Implants, our experienced team can identify the type of fracture you have and provide treatment accordingly. 

Common types of tooth fractures include: 

• Craze Lines – These tiny cracks are usually harmless and can be caused by aggressive brushing or grinding.
• Cracked Tooth Syndrome – This type of fracture only affects the enamel layer and is often hard to detect.
• Split Tooth – A split tooth can extend from the crown to the root, making it a serious dental condition that requires immediate care.
• Vertical Root Fracture – This type of fracture occurs in the root of the tooth and can be difficult to detect.

Dental Treatments for Fractured Teeth

The most effective treatment for a fractured tooth depends on the severity and type of fracture. In some cases, a bonding agent may be used to fill in the crack or chip and provide additional structural support. For more significant fractures, dental implants, dental crowns or root canal therapy may be necessary to protect the tooth from further damage. 

Dental Implants Highlands Ranch

If you have a broken tooth and require a dental implant, schedule an appointment at Highlands Ranch Periodontics and Dental Implants. Dr. Mike Norouzinia will provide you with the best course of action to repair your fractured tooth, maintain your dental health, and prevent further complications. Don’t let a fractured tooth go untreated – contact us today to schedule your appointment! 

Call (303) 683-1144 to schedule an appointment or complete the online booking form. If you are searching for dental implants near me, trust the experts at Highlands Ranch Periodontics and Dental Implants. 

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