What Happens If You Ignore A Cracked Molar Tooth?
Ignoring a cracked tooth can lead to serious dental complications over time. When you first crack a tooth, the discomfort can come and go, or it may not be noticeable at all. This makes it easy to ignore. If you wait to get a cracked molar treated, you run the risk of the tooth becoming more painful and possibly even losing your teeth.
Signs Of A Cracked Molar
A cracked molar isn’t always obvious. Some people may not realize they have a cracked tooth until they go to a dental cleaning appointment. Some people may feel a sharp pain when biting and may experience sensitivity to hot or cold drinks. If you have any mild or inconsistent discomfort in the back areas of your teeth, it can indicate that you may have a crack in one of your molars. If you have any of these symptoms or notice any swelling or tenderness in your gums, contact Buckeye Dental today to get a same-day dental evaluation.
How Ignoring A Small Tooth Problem Can Turn Serious
When you choose to ignore a crack in a molar, it can quickly develop into a more serious issue. If left unaddressed, you are risking permanent damage, infection, and even more discomfort. This small crack can create a serious problem if you leave it untreated. Below are some of the most common consequences that can occur if a molar with a crack is left without intervention.
Increased Pain
One of the most common issues that can arise from a cracked molar being left untreated is increased discomfort. Over time, the crack will deepen, and the pressure from chewing will begin to irritate the root of the tooth. This can lead to sharp and throbbing pain. This discomfort may first only occur when you are biting down, but eventually it will become a constant feeling. This can interfere with eating and your daily comfort.
Risk Of Infection
A cracked molar can also lead to an infection. As the crack gets bigger and deeper, bacteria can enter the inner layers where the nerves and blood vessels are located. These areas can become infected and cause sensitivity, discomfort, and swelling. In some cases, a tooth abscess can form, which can require even more dental procedures to treat. Once an infection is present, it can spread to the surrounding gum tissues and your jawbone.
Tooth Loss
In addition to more discomfort and possible infections, a cracked molar can also lead to tooth loss. There is a possibility that the molar can be beyond repair if it becomes severely infected or if there is a deep fracture. When a molar has a crack in it, the tooth’s structure will start to become weaker over time. It will become more unstable as more pressure is put on it whenever you bite down. This can cause the tooth to eventually split and break. If your tooth splits and you lose a molar, your ability to chew properly can be affected, and it can cause your surrounding teeth to shift. All of these things can lead to bigger issues and more extensive dental work to ensure that your teeth are protected from further damage.
Invasive Dental Treatments
As damage progresses with a cracked tooth, it can get to a point where more invasive treatment is needed to fix the problem. If the crack gets infected and your body is unable to heal the infection on its own, the only way to remove the infected tissue is to have a root canal. Early detection will help avoid invasive procedures and preserve long-term tooth health.
Bite Issues
If you don’t fix a cracked molar, you run the risk of your bite changing over time. When you experience discomfort from a crack in a molar, you may subconsciously avoid using that area in your mouth to chew. This can weaken your mouth muscles, and it can change your natural bite alignment. In addition, if it is left unresolved and it eventually falls out, you run the risk of your surrounding teeth moving into that open space. This can lead to pressure when biting down and cause jaw pain. These changes can have big consequences and will extend beyond the original cracked molar.
Early Treatment Can Protect Your Tooth And Save Your Smile
If you think you have a crack in your tooth, it is important that you seek professional dental help immediately. Seeing a dentist right away will help you address the issue promptly and avoid further damage. At Buckeye Immediate Dental, we offer same-day appointments for those who need an immediate dental evaluation. Our team will evaluate and recommend treatment plans that are right for you so you can relieve your discomfort quickly. You don’t have limited options when you choose Buckeye Immediate Dental. Our team will present you with all of the options available to you and help you make an informed decision. Our dental care will help you take a step forward in your oral health and your long-term comfort.
Schedule A Dental Consultation Today
If you think you may have a crack in a tooth or molar, schedule an appointment today to get it assessed. Don’t allow the pain to get worse and the crack to become deeper. Immediate care can stop the damage from progressing. Our team is here to evaluate, identify your issue, and come up with a treatment plan that will fix your smile. Making an appointment today with a dentist can help you avoid infections and more discomfort. Call Buckeye Immediate Dental today!