Causes of Cracked or Broken Teeth

Teeth are incredibly strong, but they’re not indestructible. Every day, they endure a lot of stress—from chewing hard foods to sudden temperature changes. Over time, even healthy teeth can crack or break due to various reasons.

Common causes include trauma from accidents or falls, biting into hard foods like ice or popcorn kernels, teeth grinding (bruxism), and wear from age or old dental work.

Patients in York, Maine, especially those who enjoy an active outdoor lifestyle or sports, may also be at higher risk for dental injuries if proper mouthguards aren’t worn during activity.

Additionally, large fillings or root canals can weaken the structure of a tooth, making it more prone to fractures. Understanding these causes can help you take preventative steps—but more importantly, it can help you recognize when professional care is necessary.

Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Them

It might be tempting to shrug off a small crack or chip—especially if it isn’t causing pain. But even a minor tooth fracture can open the door to bigger dental problems. When the enamel is compromised, bacteria can sneak in, leading to decay, infection, and even tooth loss if left untreated.

Ignoring a cracked tooth can also allow it to worsen with daily use. What starts as a hairline fracture can deepen or spread, eventually requiring more invasive (and expensive) treatment such as a root canal or tooth extraction.

At York Village Dental, we’ve seen countless cases where early intervention could have saved patients from pain, time, and cost.

If you live in York, Kittery, or the Portsmouth area, delaying treatment can also mean losing your window for less invasive options. We recommend calling at the first sign of damage—because in dentistry, sooner is always better.

Common Symptoms and Hidden Dangers

Not all cracks or breaks cause immediate pain—which is why many people overlook them. However, even subtle signs may point to underlying dental issues that shouldn’t be ignored.

Symptoms can include sharp pain when biting down, sensitivity to hot or cold, or pain that comes and goes. Sometimes, the tooth might look perfectly fine but still harbor a vertical fracture that can lead to infection deep in the root.

Hidden dangers include the risk of bacteria entering through the crack, leading to an abscess or bone loss. At York Village Dental, we use digital imaging and diagnostic tools to detect fractures even when they’re invisible to the naked eye.

Short-Term vs. Long-Term Consequences

In the short term, a cracked or broken tooth might seem like a cosmetic concern. But even without pain, the exposed structure of the tooth is vulnerable to further damage. You might find it difficult to chew or speak properly, and the risk of pain or sensitivity increases with each passing day.

Over the long term, untreated tooth fractures can lead to tooth loss, gum disease, or infection that spreads to other parts of the body. Patients who wait too long often end up needing root canals, extractions, or even dental implants to restore oral function.

Acting early not only saves your tooth—it preserves your overall health and helps avoid costly interventions.

Treatment Options at York Village Dental

At York Village Dental, we tailor every treatment to your specific needs. Depending on the severity of your cracked or broken tooth, we may recommend one of several restorative options.

For minor chips, a dental bonding or cosmetic filling can restore both appearance and function. More significant fractures may require a dental crown to protect and strengthen the tooth. In cases where the inner pulp is damaged or infected, a root canal or even extraction may be necessary.

Our team of experienced dental professionals will assess your situation and recommend the most effective, long-lasting solution with your comfort and budget in mind.

When to Call the Dentist

If you notice a visible crack, sharp edge, or any change in how your tooth feels when chewing, it’s time to call your dentist. Even mild discomfort should not be ignored—especially if you’re experiencing sensitivity to temperature or pressure.

York Village Dental welcomes patients from all over southern Maine and coastal New Hampshire, including Portsmouth and Kittery. Whether your dental concern is urgent or you’re just not sure, we’re here to help. The earlier you come in, the more options we’ll have to save your tooth and avoid more invasive procedures.

Final Thoughts

Your teeth are built to last a lifetime—but only with proper care. A cracked or broken tooth is more than a nuisance; it’s a sign that something needs attention. With the right treatment, most tooth fractures can be repaired quickly and effectively.

Don’t wait until that small crack becomes a major problem. Whether you’ve experienced trauma, discomfort, or just noticed something feels off, York Village Dental is your trusted partner for restoring your smile and peace of mind,

York Village Dental – Where Beautiful Smiles Begin