Can Cracked Tooth Be Saved?
There are various things which can cause a tooth to become cracked or fractured. Common causes include grinding, an injury or trauma, and the patient’s age. Cracked teeth can result in symptoms such as pain, sensitivity, and swelling. Fortunately, there are various treatment options a dentist can use to restore a cracked tooth. The ideal solution will vary based on the location and severity of the crack.
A cracked tooth occurs when there is damage to the tooth, causing a small break or fracture. Cracks can range in severity from minor and not noticeable to severe and extremely painful. In some cases, the tooth may even split into two separate pieces. Severe cracks are dangerous and often considered to be a dental emergency.
A crack can occur in any tooth; however, cracks are most common in the upper front and lower back teeth. Cracked teeth may also be called cracked tooth syndrome (CTS) or referred to as a fractured tooth. The teeth contain several parts, all of which can experience a crack.
Tooth fractures are classified into one of the categories listed below:
1. Cracked tooth - a vertical crack which is from the biting surface of the tooth to the gum line. The crack may also extend into the tooth’s root.
2. Craze lines or hairline cracks - small, thin cracks on the tooth’s enamel. These cracks are harmless and do not cause pain.
3. Fractured cusp - these cracks often form around dental fillings and are usually minor, not resulting in discomfort.
4. Split tooth - as indicated by the name, this crack is severe and splits the tooth in two. The crack can run under the gum line.
5. Vertical root fracture - a crack which begins below your gum line and moves toward the tooth’s surface. This crack rarely causes symptoms until there is an infection in pulp of the tooth.
A cracked tooth can be a serious injury as it allows bacteria to reach the tooth’s pulp. This may result in an abscess. An untreated abscess can be serious as it may spread to the jawbone, facial muscles, tendons and fat cells in the neck or face.
Symptoms and Causes
Common symptoms and causes of a cracked tooth are summarized below. Teeth which are cracked may not cause any symptoms, but common symptoms include the following:
- Pain or toothache, especially when chewing or biting down
- Sensitivity to hot or cold and sweets
- Swelling near the affected tooth
A cracked tooth which remains untreated can result in a tooth abscess. Symptoms of a tooth abscess include bad breath, ongoing pain, fever, and swollen gums or lymph nodes.
Common causes of a cracked tooth include the following:
1. Age: Over time, the teeth naturally wear down. This wear and tear on the teeth puts the teeth at an increased risk for cracks and other issues.
2. Chewing on hard foods: Hard foods such as ice, candy, and popcorn can easily crack the teeth.
3. Large fillings: Certain dental treatments such as a root canal or large filling can compromise the tooth and increase the risk for cracks.
4. Chronic grinding: Patients often grind their teeth while they are sleeping or as the result of high stress. The extreme forces from grinding can damage and crack the teeth.
5. Trauma or accidents: The teeth often crack due to an accident or injury. This is common when patients fall, experience a sports injury or are in a car accident.
Fortunately, there are various treatment options which can help restore and preserve a cracked tooth. The best treatment option will depend on the severity of the crack and location of the damaged tooth. Common treatments can include bonding, crowns, veneers, and root canals. When the tooth is damaged beyond repair, it may require extraction. Patients should work with their dentist to determine the best treatment option.