Cracked Tooth Syndrome

Cracked tooth syndrome (CTS) is a very common problem that occurs for any number of reasons.  Most commonly, CTS occurs in teeth that have been 
restored numerous times, have sustained trauma, or have undergone years of grinding.  However, CTS also occurs in teeth that have never been filled and can cause a tooth to abscess without prior warning.

Symptoms of CTS:
1.  Painful chewing
2.  Sensitivity to sweets
3.  Sensitivity, especially to cold
4.  History of other cracked teeth
5.  Inability to detect problems on a dental x-ray.

Treating CTS:
It is recommended that CTS be treated with either a crown (cap) or veneer to prevent further cracks.  Since cracks usually cause part of the tooth to break off, a simple restoration (filling) is not the preferred treatment.  Also, if it is determined that grinding (bruxism) is the underlying cause of CTS, a bruxism splint (nightguard) may be recommended to prevent further wear.