Is a Cracked Tooth a Big Problem?

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A cracked tooth can cause pain and discomfort. Beyond that, there are many other problems that a cracked tooth can cause. Your dentist in Alabaster, AL, can help with your cracked tooth. It’s important to see the dentist as soon as you’ve realized your tooth has been cracked! Below are some things you should know about what it means to have a cracked tooth.

What’s the Problem With a Cracked Tooth?

There’s not just one problem with a cracked tooth. If you have a cracked tooth, you might experience any one of the following issues:

  • Bacterial infection in your tooth. If the crack goes deep enough, bacteria can infect the pulp in your tooth.
  • Dental decay. A crack in your tooth enamel can leave your tooth vulnerable to decay.
  • Sensitivity. Cracks in tooth enamel can lead to sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures.
  • Bad breath. If the tooth becomes infected, your breath might start to smell bad.

Signs Your Tooth is Cracked

If your tooth is cracked, you may be able to tell. Some signs that you have a crack in your tooth enamel includes:

  • Sensitivity
  • Severe toothache
  • Pain when you bite down

These are not symptoms to ignore! Talk to your dentist as soon as you’ve started to notice discomfort in your tooth.

What to Do If You Crack A Tooth

Your dentist can help treat your cracked tooth. They may recommend a dental crown or a root canal. First, your dentist will need to diagnose your problem with a dental examination in Alabaster, AL. If you’re experiencing the symptoms above, get help. Call today to make an appointment.

Are Sugar-Free Foods Really Better for Your Teeth?

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Most people know that dentists in Alabaster, AL and other areas discourage eating sugary foods and drinking sugary beverages. Sugar is like the enemy of teeth because bacteria thrive on the stuff. When you consume sugar, whatever is left on teeth is happily ingested by bacteria. And when bacteria have plenty of sugar, their colony grows. Unfortunately, you can’t witness any of this until teeth start to go bad. By then you may need fillings or even tooth restoration. This is why many people make an effort to switch to sugar-free foods. But are they really better for your teeth?

The Answer Depends

If you’re eating healthier and avoiding added sugars, that’s a good thing. Whole foods like vegetables, fruits, meats and seafoods are always going to be better for your teeth than processed foods with added sugar.

But if you’re talking about eating sweet tasting foods with sugar alternatives—-or even honey—then the answer isn’t as straightforward. The jury’s still out on whether sugar replacements like xylitol, saccharine and stevia have similar effects on teeth and gums as sugar. To be on the safe side, you probably want to use them sparingly. Of course, if it means using a sugar replacement or straight sugar, the sugar replacement might possibly be better for your teeth.

Regular Cleanings Are Essential

Just because you’ve made a vow to go sugar-free doesn’t mean you can skip your regular dental cleanings in Alabaster, AL, though. There are plenty of other things that can go wrong with teeth that aren’t related to sugar, after all.

To learn more about all the ways you can keep your teeth and gums healthy, book an appointment today with your dentist. The best way to keep your beautiful smile is to follow your dentist’s advice!