Cracked tooth syndrome

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Cracked tooth syndrome (CTS), also known as cracked cusp syndrome or split tooth syndrome, is a dental condition characterized by an incomplete fracture of a tooth that is not immediately visible. This condition often affects the molars and can cause a variety of symptoms, including pain and discomfort when chewing or when the tooth is exposed to temperature extremes.

Symptoms

The symptoms of cracked tooth syndrome can vary widely but often include:

• Sharp pain when biting or chewing, especially when releasing the bite
• Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
• Intermittent pain that is difficult to localize
• Swelling around the affected tooth

Causes

Cracked tooth syndrome can be caused by several factors, including:

• Bruxism (teeth grinding)
• Chewing on hard objects such as ice, nuts, or hard candies
• Trauma to the mouth
• Large dental fillings that weaken the tooth structure
• Age-related wear and tear

Diagnosis

Diagnosing cracked tooth syndrome can be challenging due to the intermittent nature of the symptoms and the difficulty in visualizing the crack. Dentists may use the following methods to diagnose CTS:

• Clinical examination and patient history
• Bite tests using special instruments
• Dental radiography (X-rays), although cracks may not always be visible
• Use of a dental microscope or other magnification tools

Treatment

The treatment for cracked tooth syndrome depends on the location and extent of the crack. Common treatment options include:

• Dental bonding or dental crowns to protect the tooth and prevent the crack from worsening
• Root canal therapy if the crack has affected the pulp of the tooth
• Extraction of the tooth if the crack is severe and cannot be repaired

Prevention

Preventive measures to reduce the risk of developing cracked tooth syndrome include:

• Wearing a mouthguard if you grind your teeth at night
• Avoiding chewing on hard objects
• Regular dental check-ups to monitor the condition of your teeth

Related Pages

• Tooth
• Dental filling
• Root canal therapy
• Bruxism
• Dental crown
• Dental radiography