Cracked Teeth Repair
We currently live longer and have more stressful lives today than we did in the past. We are exposing our teeth to many more years of potentially damaging habits such as clenching, grinding, and chewing on hard objects. These habits make our teeth more susceptible to cracks. Your dentist may treat a cracked tooth to prevent further damage to the tooth structure and tissue.
Cracked teeth do not always show visible signs of damage, but may present a variety of symptoms, including erratic pain when you chew with them, and pain or sensitivity to heat and cold. In many cases, the pain may come and go, making it difficult for your doctor to locate the source.
What is the treatment for a Cracked Tooth?
- Depending on the extent of a cracked tooth treatment options vary.
- If the crack and damage to the tooth is minimal a small filling may be all that is needed; however, if the damage is larger the tooth will need to be held together with a crown.
- Some cracks propagate down to the nerve, if the crack goes into the nerve, it will need root canal treatment and a crown.
- Some cracks extend from the chewing surface of the tooth vertically toward the root and bone. If the crack extends to the root an extraction and implant are the best treatment.
- Your dentist will help diagnosis and treat your cracked tooth properly.
What is a Vertical Root Fracture?
Vertical root fractures are cracks that begin in the root of the tooth and extend toward the chewing surface. They often show minimal signs and symptoms and may therefore go unnoticed until the surrounding bone and gum become infected. Treatment may entail extraction of the tooth.
What can I do to prevent Cracked Teeth?
While cracked teeth are not completely preventable, you can take some steps to make your teeth less susceptible to cracks.
- Don’t chew on hard objects such as ice, unpopped popcorn kernels, or pens.
- Don’t clench or grind your teeth.
- Wear a mouthguard or protective mask when playing contact sports.
Early diagnosis is important. Even with high magnification and special lighting, it can be challenging to determine the extent of a crack. A cracked tooth that is not treated will progressively worsen, and eventually result in the loss of the tooth. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to saving these teeth, so be sure to make and keep your regularly scheduled cleanings and evaluations.
What is a Fractured Cusp?
When a cusp (the pointed part of the chewing surface) becomes weakened, a fracture sometimes results. The weakened cusp may break off by itself or require removal by the dentist. When this happens, the pain will usually be relieved. A fractured cusp can damage the pulp, so root canal treatment is sometimes prescribed. Should this be the case in your treatment, your tooth can then be restored with a full crown by Dr. Razdolsky or Tincher.
What are Craze Lines?
Craze lines are tiny cracks that affect only the outer enamel. These cracks are extremely common in adult teeth. Craze lines are very shallow, cause no pain, and are of no real concern beyond appearance.
Are there different types of Cracked Teeth?
There are many different types of cracked teeth. The treatment and outcome for your tooth depends on the type, location, and extent of the crack. Drs. Razdolsky and Tincher, and the Lake Forest Dental Associates team have not only the expertise, but the tools necessary to ensure the right treatment to suit your unique case.