How Serious is Cracked Tooth
A common oral health problem is a cracked tooth. It is actually possible for the teeth to crack in various ways.
A cracked tooth occurs when the crack runs from the tooth’s biting surface down to the root. The crack may also go below the gumline or even down into the root. While the cracked tooth does not split into two pieces, there is typically damage in the soft inner tissue.
Craze lines are small cracks that impact the outside layer of the tooth or the enamel. These types of cracks do not cause pain and are most common in adult teeth. These cracks are minor and do not require treatment.
A cracked cusp occurs where there is damage to the pointed part of the tooth’s biting surface. A damaged cusp can result in the tooth breaking and typically results in sharp pain, especially when biting down.
A split tooth occurs when the tooth splits into two separate parts and often occurs because a cracked tooth is left untreated. A vertical root fracture is a crack which begins in the root and spreads to the biting surface of the tooth.
Below is a summary of common causes for cracked teeth.
- Grinding the teeth, which is especially common at night
- Large fillings which compromise the strength of the tooth
- Chewing hard things such as ice, hard candy, and other objects
- Accident or injury
- Gum disease which often results in bone loss
- Extreme and sudden temperature changes in the mouth
While there are certain signs of a cracked tooth, the symptoms can vary based on the location and severity of the damage. Patients may experience sporadic pain, especially when chewing. There may also be increased sensitivity to hot, cold, and sweets. Another sign of a cracked tooth is swollen gums around the affected tooth. Patients who experience significant pain or discomfort can take an over-the-counter pain reliever while they wait for treatment.
Cracked teeth are serious and require treatment from a dentist. Prompt treatment is critical in preventing additional damage and preserving the tooth. Cracked teeth which are left untreated, can result in nerve death or the development of an abscess. Patients may require a root canal or in severe cases, the tooth may need to be extracted. It is also possible for the tooth to split into two separate pieces. When a tooth splits, it cannot be preserved and must be removed.
While it is possible that the tooth may need to be taken out, this is not always necessary, and the tooth can often be preserved. Patients with a cracked tooth should follow up with the dentist right away to discuss their treatment options. Prompt treatment is vital in preserving the tooth and ensuring the best possible outcome.
Fortunately, there are various treatment options which can be used to preserve and restore a cracked tooth. The optimal treatment option will vary based on the location and severity of the damage. Below is a summary of common treatments used to repair cracked teeth.
Bonding
The dentist will use a plastic resin to fill in the crack. Bonding works well for treating small chips on the tooth’s biting edge. This is also a good treatment option for restoring the shape of the tooth.
Cosmetic contouring
Contouring is commonly used for small cracks. This treatment works by rounding and polishing the rough edges of the tooth.
Veneers
Dental veneers are an excellent solution for restoring cracked teeth. In order for the patient to be a good candidate for a veneer, they must have an adequate amount of healthy tooth structure present to support the veneer. Veneers are made from a thin layer of porcelain which is securely attached to the front of the natural tooth. A small amount of the natural tooth is typically removed to prepare the tooth for the veneer.
Crowns
A crown is commonly used to restore a cracked tooth which has significant damage. Crowns are a good alternative to a veneer. The crown fits snugly over the natural tooth in order to restore the tooth’s function and appearance. Patients with nerve damage may first require a root canal.
In severe cases, the tooth may require removal. Patients with a cracked tooth must follow up with a dentist to discuss treatment options.