Did you notice a break in the surface of one of your molars with your tongue? While a cracked tooth in Richmond may or may not be a dental emergency, you wouldn’t want to wait too long before seeing your dentist. When its enamel breaks, there’s a risk of pulp damage that may require a root canal procedure.
What Are the Most Common Causes of a Cracked Molar?
Dental Work
Molars with extensive filling material have weak structural integrity. For this reason, they couldn’t withstand biting forces from opposing teeth. If you have a molar with an older filling that’s too deep or too wide, don’t be surprised if the tooth eventually cracks at the base.
Biting Down on Hard Foods
A tooth can crack in the right conditions if you bite down on a hard candy, carrot, nut, or bread crust. However, it all comes down to how hard the food is and how strong your teeth are. If the food you’re biting down on is stronger, it will wreak havoc on the teeth in the back and side of your mouth.
Oral Jewelry
Although tongue and cheek piercings may be appealing to some people, they can cause considerable damage to your teeth. When these pieces of metal hit against your pearly whites, they weaken the enamel. For this reason, having a piece of jewelry moving around in your mouth will always put you at risk of cracking a tooth or more.
Using Your Teeth as Tools
While early humans used their teeth as tools, they eventually learned to use other objects as tools. If you’re serious about saving your teeth, don’t use them for opening food packaging, cutting thread, or holding pens. Grab the right tools to get the job done.
Bruxism
Bruxism is a condition in which a person unconsciously clenches or grinds their teeth. All that grinding will cause your enamel to wear down and reveal the underlying layer of dentin, which cracks easily. If you have bruxism, it’s best to ask your dentist about oral appliances that can help protect your teeth.
Do You Have a Cracked Tooth in Richmond?
At Commonwealth Endodontics, we provide the best care in a safe and comfortable environment. Contact us today to make an appointment.