Natural teeth are strong. However, they’re not indestructible. That means they can end up cracking from time to time. If you’re in that situation, you’ll want to know what to do right away. The last thing you want to do is make matters worse by taking a “wait and see” approach. Even if you need a tooth extraction in San Antonio, TX, you’re better off getting everything taken care of sooner rather than later.
First, though, you should understand the basics of why teeth crack and why a cracked tooth requires a trip to a periodontist.
What Makes Your Natural Teeth Susceptible to Cracking?
Natural teeth tend to be fairly tough. That’s why they can last year after year. Even when you bite down on food, your tooth probably isn’t going to crack. But teeth can and do crack from time to time, and here’s why: They’re made up of an outer layer of enamel and inner layer of tissues. In other words, they have the strength to perform everyday jobs. Yet when faced with unexpected or intense pressure, teeth may give way and split.
For instance, many people crack a tooth by biting down suddenly on a metal fork or spoon. Or they experience cracking from chewing ice cubes or tooth grinding. Trauma can cause cracking as well: If you’re hit by an object, such as while playing sports, you might end up with a cracked tooth.
The crack itself could be anything from something tiny to something more prominent. Regardless of the size of the crack, any tooth trauma necessitates an immediate checkup. Even if you’re not feeling pain or discomfort, you should set up an examination.
Is Tooth Extraction in San Antonio, TX, Always Necessary After a Cracked Tooth?
Teeth can crack in many different ways. Sometimes, a minor crack can be repaired without removing the tooth. In other situations, though, the tooth must be extracted. Many people who undergo tooth extraction in San Antonio, TX, end up replacing the missing tooth with a high-quality single dental implant.
The bottom line is that you can’t afford to ignore a cracked tooth. Instead, visit a trained periodontist like Dr. Andrew J. Weber. Dr. Weber has spent more than 20 years providing compassionate, leading-edge care for patients with issues ranging from cracked to missing teeth.
Contact the Excellent Dental Specialists at (210) 794-7747 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Andrew J. Weber in San Antonio, TX or New Braunfels, TX.
