Check for pain coming from a specific spot on one of your teeth, sensitivity when you bite or chew, and aches when you drink hot or cold liquids. Often, cracked teeth are difficult to find and are not usually visible on x-rays. Your best bet is to contact your dentist for an appointment. Early diagnosis might even save you from tooth removal. Unlike bones, cracked teeth don’t heal on their own.

Your dentist will suggest a repair plan such as a bonded filling, crown, or root canal, depending on location and severity of the crack. Your dentist might also suggest a night guard if you aren't already wearing one. The guard will protect your teeth from clenching and grinding forces while you are sleeping. It will also protect your jaw muscles, bones, and joints.

Cracked teeth happen whenever you add extreme or accidental pressure on the tooth’s surface. You might injure your tooth while chewing on hard objects, such as ice, playing contact sports without a mouthguard or face mask, such as hockey, as well as grinding or clenching.

If you're unsure if you have a cracked tooth or need a custom mouthguard made, make an appointment at one of our Winnipeg clinics (located in Garden City Shopping Centre and St. Vital Centre). You can schedule an appointment online today.