Cracked molars are a common dental emergency that can cause significant discomfort and require immediate attention. Whether the crack is due to trauma, a cavity, or excessive pressure on the tooth, it can result in pain, sensitivity, and complications if not properly treated. Cracked teeth can range from minor fissures to more severe breaks, and the type of treatment you need will depend on the extent of the damage.
In this blog, we will guide you through the steps to take when you have a cracked molar, how to manage the pain, and when to seek professional care to ensure your tooth heals properly.
What Causes Cracked Molars?
Molars are some of the hardest-working teeth in your mouth. These back teeth are responsible for grinding and chewing food, making them more susceptible to cracks due to the pressure they endure. Common causes of cracked molars include:
Trauma or Injury: A sudden blow to the mouth, such as from a fall or sports injury, can crack or break a molar.
Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): Grinding or clenching your teeth, especially during sleep, can put excessive pressure on your molars, causing them to crack over time.
Large Fillings or Cavities: If a molar has a large filling or has been compromised by decay, it can become weaker and more prone to cracking.
Chewing Hard Foods: Biting down on hard foods, such as ice, hard candy, or nuts, can cause a crack or chip in your molar.
Age and Wear: As we age, teeth naturally wear down, and older molars may become more brittle, making them susceptible to cracks.
Regardless of the cause, its important to address a cracked molar as soon as possible to prevent further damage and complications.
Signs and Symptoms of a Cracked Molar
A cracked molar may not always be immediately visible, but there are common signs and symptoms to watch for:
Pain when chewing or biting: If you feel sharp or dull pain when chewing, it could be due to pressure on the cracked tooth.
Sensitivity to hot or cold: A cracked tooth can lead to heightened sensitivity to temperature changes, such as hot drinks or cold air.
Visible cracks or chips: You may notice visible cracks or chips on your molar, especially if the crack is large.
Swelling or tenderness in the gums: The gums around the cracked molar may become swollen or tender due to irritation or infection.
Pain that comes and goes: The pain associated with a cracked molar may be intermittent, often worsening when you bite or chew.
If you experience any of these symptoms, its important to seek professional care as soon as possible to prevent further damage and manage the pain effectively.
Immediate Steps to Take for a Cracked Molar
If youve cracked a molar, the following steps can help you manage the pain and protect the tooth until you can see a dentist:
1. Rinse Your Mouth with Warm Saltwater
Rinsing your mouth with warm saltwater helps cleanse the area around the cracked tooth, reducing the risk of infection. It also helps soothe irritation caused by the crack.
How to do it: Mix half a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and gently swish it around your mouth for 30 seconds before spitting it out. Repeat as needed throughout the day.
2. Apply a Cold Compress
If there is swelling or pain associated with the cracked molar, applying a cold compress to the outside of your cheek can help reduce both inflammation and discomfort.
How to apply: Wrap ice or a cold pack in a cloth and apply it to the affected side of your face for 15-20 minutes. Do this several times a day as needed.
3. Avoid Chewing on the Cracked Tooth
To prevent further damage to the molar and avoid irritating the cracked tooth, avoid chewing on the side of the mouth where the tooth is cracked. Stick to soft foods that dont require much chewing, and avoid any hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that could exacerbate the injury.
4. Take Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers
If youre in pain, taking over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) can help alleviate discomfort. Make sure to follow the dosage instructions on the packaging.
Tip: Avoid taking aspirin, as it can increase bleeding if the crack is causing any damage to the soft tissue.
5. Use Temporary Dental Filling Material (If Available)
If you have access to a temporary dental filling material, you can apply it to the cracked area to protect the tooth until you can see a dentist. This can help prevent food particles from getting stuck in the crack and reduce sensitivity.
How to apply: Follow the instructions on the packaging, and be sure not to use the temporary filling material to replace a visit to the dentist.
When to Seek Professional Care
While these steps can help manage the pain and protect the cracked molar temporarily, its essential to see a dentist as soon as possible to get the proper treatment. The dentist will examine the tooth and determine the extent of the damage. Here are some reasons why you should seek professional care:
1. Severe Pain or Constant Pain
If you are experiencing severe or constant pain, it may indicate that the crack has reached the inner pulp of the tooth, which houses nerves and blood vessels. This can lead to an infection or further damage, requiring more extensive treatment.
2. Visible Cracks or Fractures
If you notice visible cracks or fractures that affect the structure of the tooth, its crucial to have the tooth evaluated by a dentist. Depending on the extent of the crack, the tooth may require a crown or other restoration to prevent further damage.
3. Signs of Infection
If the cracked molar is accompanied by swelling, fever, or pus coming from the gum, these may be signs of infection. An untreated infection can spread to surrounding teeth and even cause systemic health problems. Immediate dental care is needed to address the infection.
4. Difficulty Moving Your Jaw
If the pain from the cracked molar affects your ability to move your jaw or open your mouth, its important to seek prompt care. This may indicate a more serious injury, such as a tooth fracture that extends into the root.
Treatment Options for a Cracked Molar
When you see a dentist for a cracked molar, the treatment will depend on the severity of the crack. Common treatment options include:
Dental Bonding: For minor cracks or chips, a dentist may use a tooth-colored resin to bond the crack and restore the tooths shape.
Dental Crowns: If the crack is more extensive, the dentist may recommend a dental crown to cover and protect the tooth. Crowns restore the function of the molar and prevent further damage.
Root Canal Therapy: If the crack has reached the pulp of the tooth and caused an infection, a root canal may be necessary to remove the infected tissue and save the tooth.
Tooth Extraction: In severe cases where the tooth is beyond repair, extraction may be required, and the dentist will discuss options for replacing the tooth, such as dental implants or bridges.
Preventing Cracked Molars in the Future
To reduce the risk of cracked molars in the future, consider these tips:
Wear a Mouthguard: If you participate in contact sports or grind your teeth at night, a mouthguard can protect your teeth from trauma and pressure.
Avoid Hard Foods: Be cautious when eating hard foods like ice, hard candy, and nuts, which can put undue stress on your molars.
Maintain Regular Dental Checkups: Regular visits to the dentist can help detect cracks early before they become more serious problems. Dentists can also check for signs of teeth grinding or other conditions that may increase the risk of tooth fractures.
Conclusion
A cracked molar can be a painful and potentially serious dental issue, but with the right care and timely professional treatment, you can restore your tooth to health and avoid further complications. By following the steps above to manage pain and seeking prompt dental care, you can prevent worsening damage and ensure the best outcome for your dental health.