There’s a saying that goes, “A stitch in time saves nine.” This saying holds true for a lot of things, including dental health. Many people ignore dental issues such as cracked teeth, hoping they’ll eventually go away on their own. Unfortunately, this isn’t the best approach. Delaying treatment for a cracked tooth can lead to major problems.
But why is this so?
Let’s explore the reasons.
What Can Happen if You Delay Treatment for a Cracked Tooth?
In this article, we’ll dive into the potential issues you may face if you put off going to the dentist for a cracked tooth.
Painful Toothaches
Ignoring a cracked tooth can lead to painful toothaches that disrupt your daily life. If you’ve ever had a toothache, you know how uncomfortable and unbearable it can be. Catching the problem early on with the help of reputable dental facilities like Always About Smiles: Thomas R. Lambert DMD can help avoid this situation and keep your teeth healthy and pain-free.
Spreading of Infection
Cracked teeth create an opening for bacteria to enter the tooth. This may lead to a tooth infection, which can spread to nearby teeth and even into the jawbone if left untreated. Visiting a dentist for services like dental urgent care in Bethlehem, PA, for instance, can help prevent the spread of infection and protect your overall oral health.
Tooth Decay
As bacteria enter the cracked tooth, it can cause tooth decay. Decay can cause further damage to the tooth and even lead to total tooth loss if left untreated. Treating a cracked tooth promptly can save the tooth, prevent the need for extraction, and avoid the inconvenience and added expense of dental implants or dentures.
Gum Disease
Did you know that allowing bacteria to spread because of a cracked tooth can result in gum disease? Gum disease puts your oral health at risk and has been linked to other health concerns such as heart disease, diabetes, and even Alzheimer’s. By acting quickly and treating a cracked tooth, you can help maintain your oral and overall health.
Bite and Alignment Issues
A cracked tooth can eventually shift your bite and affect the alignment of your teeth. This may cause discomfort when chewing, increased sensitivity, and even aesthetic concerns regarding your smile. Treating the cracked tooth early helps maintain your bite and alignment, alleviating further complications.
Increased Dental Expenses
The longer you delay treatment for a cracked tooth, the more likely the issue will develop into something more serious. As a result, the cost of treatment increases significantly. In other words, you could save money in the long run if you promptly seek treatment.
Remember, it’s essential to find a specialist like the trusted dentist in Bethlehem to assess your dental situation properly and provide appropriate treatment.
Final Thoughts
Delaying treatment for a cracked tooth is risky and can result in painful toothaches, spreading infection, tooth decay, gum disease, bite and alignment issues, and increased dental expenses. Don’t gamble with your dental health. If you suspect a cracked tooth, you must act quickly and find a trusted dentist to assess and treat the issue. The sooner you take care of your dental issue, the better your chances of maintaining a healthy, beautiful smile.
