Learn about the symptoms and treatments for hairline cracks in teeth
There are many causes of hairline cracks in teeth and the term ‘tooth decay’ is often used, but this article focuses on another cause: the formation of cracks in teeth. Here I will discuss what these symptoms and treatments are, focusing on whether or not you should seek medical advice to help with the problem.
What are hairline cracks in teeth?
Hairline cracks in teeth are small open cracks in the enamel on a tooth. Typically, hairline cracks occur because of chewing or biting too sharply or using a hard brush to clean your teeth. Hairline cracks can also be caused by age and cause your smile to look different than it used to.
How do I know if my child has a crack in their tooth?
A crack in a tooth is called a fissure. Everyone has hairline cracks and even small fissures on their teeth, but they usually go unnoticed until they are large enough to be seen by the eye or at least noticed by someone brushing the teeth.
When starting treatment for hairline cracks in teeth, what should I expect?
When you start treatment for a hairline crack in teeth, first make sure to take some time off from brushing and flossing. You should also make sure that your teeth are healthy and there isn’t any decay in the area of the crack. The cracks can bleed, but this is common when they’re caused by tooth enamel wearing away. Some treatments you can use to help with these symptoms include using a toothpaste with fluoride, using ice to numb the area, or using an over-the-counter pain reliever like ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
How can I prevent a crack from forming in my tooth again?
As your teeth age, you are more likely to develop cracks in them. These cracks can be caused by the normal wear and tear of aging but also from things like biting on a hard candy or drinking too much acidic food. When a crack forms, usually the tooth will get infected. This is tougher to treat if the crack is wide and deep. In an emergency, it’s good to know what to do.
Conclusion
If you have hairline cracks in your teeth and are experiencing pain, discomfort, or sensitivity, then you should visit your dentist to discuss the best treatment options for your particular case.
