Signs You May Have a Tooth Broken Below the Gumline
Posted on 10/15/2025 by Northview Family Dental |
 Have you ever experienced a sharp pain in your mouth while chewing, or noticed a sudden increase in sensitivity to hot or cold foods? These could be signs of a cracked tooth, and if left untreated, can lead to serious dental problems. While cracked teeth are often visible to the naked eye, sometimes they can occur below the gumline, making them difficult to detect.
What is a Cracked Tooth?
A cracked tooth is a fracture in the tooth structure that can range from a small hairline crack to a complete break. These cracks can occur in any tooth, but are most common in molars and premolars, due to the forces involved in chewing.
Causes of Cracked Teeth Below the Gumline
Several factors can contribute to a cracked tooth below the gumline, including:
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Biting or chewing on hard objects: This can put excessive pressure on the teeth, causing them to crack. |
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Teeth grinding (bruxism): This can weaken the tooth structure over time, making it more susceptible to cracking. |
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Trauma to the mouth: A blow to the face can cause a tooth to crack, even if the damage isn't immediately visible. |
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Large fillings: Large fillings can weaken the tooth structure, making it more prone to cracking. |
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Underlying decay: Decay can weaken the tooth structure, making it more likely to crack under pressure. |
Signs and Symptoms of a Cracked Tooth Below the Gumline
Cracked teeth below the gumline can be difficult to diagnose, as the crack may not be visible during a visual examination. However, some common signs and symptoms include:
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Sharp pain when biting or chewing: This pain may be localized to a specific area of the mouth, or it may be more diffuse. |
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Increased sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks: The exposed dentin beneath the crack can be very sensitive to temperature changes. |
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Swelling and inflammation of the gums: This may occur if the crack extends below the gumline and exposes the pulp of the tooth. |
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A foul taste or odor in the mouth: This can occur if the pulp of the tooth becomes infected. |
Diagnosing a Cracked Tooth Below the Gumline
If you suspect you have a cracked tooth below the gumline, it is important to see a dentist right away. They will be able to perform a thorough examination and may use X-rays or other diagnostic tools to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment for a Cracked Tooth Below the Gumline
The treatment for a cracked tooth below the gumline will depend on the severity of the crack and the location of the fracture. In some cases, the dentist may be able to simply monitor the crack and provide pain relief. However, if the crack is more severe, the dentist may recommend one of the following treatments:
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Restoration dentistry: This involves restoring the cracked tooth with a filling, crown, or other type of restoration. |
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Root canal therapy: If the crack extends into the pulp of the tooth, a root canal may be necessary to remove the infected tissue and save the tooth. |
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Extraction: In some cases, the tooth may need to be extracted if the crack is too severe to be repaired. |
Preventing Cracked Teeth Below the Gumline
There are several things you can do to prevent cracked teeth below the gumline, including:
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Avoid biting or chewing on hard objects: This includes ice, hard candy, and bones. |
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Wear a mouthguard: If you grind your teeth at night, wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth from damage. |
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See your dentist regularly: Regular dental checkups can help detect cracked teeth early, before they become more serious. |
By being aware of the signs and symptoms of a cracked tooth below the gumline, and by taking steps to prevent them, you can help keep your smile healthy and strong.
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