Options You Have for Cracked Teeth
Posted on 3/3/2025 by Neu Family Dental |
 A cracked tooth can be a painful and frustrating experience. It's important to seek treatment from a dentist as soon as possible to prevent further damage and complications. But what are your treatment options?
What are Cracked Teeth?
Cracked teeth are a common dental problem that can affect people of all ages. They occur when a tooth is fractured or broken, usually as a result of trauma or excessive force. Cracks can be small and barely visible, or they can be large and extend deep into the tooth.
There are two main types of cracked teeth:
| • |
Craze lines: These are small, superficial cracks that affect only the enamel, the outer layer of the tooth. Craze lines are usually not painful, but they can make the tooth more susceptible to further damage. |
| • |
Fractured cusps: These are deeper cracks that extend into the dentin, the inner layer of the tooth. Fractured cusps can be very painful, and they can eventually lead to the loss of the tooth if they are not treated. |
Symptoms of Cracked Teeth
The symptoms of a cracked tooth will vary depending on the severity of the crack. Some people with cracked teeth may not experience any symptoms at all, while others may experience:
| • |
Pain when biting or chewing |
| • |
Sensitivity to hot or cold |
| • |
A sharp pain that comes and goes |
| • |
Swelling of the gums |
| • |
A visible crack in the tooth |
Treatment for Cracked Teeth
The treatment for a cracked tooth will depend on the severity of the crack and the location of the crack. In some cases, a cracked tooth may heal on its own. However, if the crack is severe or if it is located in a sensitive area of the tooth, treatment will be necessary to prevent further damage.
Treatment options for cracked teeth include:
| • |
Monitoring: If the crack is small and not causing any symptoms, your dentist may simply monitor the tooth to make sure it doesn't worsen. |
| • |
Dental bonding: For small cracks that don't involve the tooth's pulp, dental bonding can be used to repair the tooth. Dental bonding involves applying a tooth-colored composite resin to the tooth and hardening it with a curing light. |
| • |
Dental crowns: If the crack is larger or if it involves the tooth's pulp, a dental crown may be necessary. A dental crown is a cap that covers the entire tooth, protecting it from further damage. |
| • |
Root canal therapy: In some cases, a root canal may be necessary to save a cracked tooth. A root canal involves removing the damaged pulp from the tooth and sealing the tooth to prevent infection. |
| • |
Tooth extraction: If the crack is severe or if the tooth is beyond repair, tooth extraction may be necessary. |
How to Prevent Cracked Teeth
There are a few things you can do to help prevent cracked teeth:
| • |
Avoid biting on hard objects: This includes ice, candy, and bones. |
| • |
Don't grind your teeth: Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, can put a lot of stress on your teeth and make them more likely to crack. |
| • |
Wear a mouthguard: If you play sports or participate in other activities that could put your teeth at risk, wear a mouthguard to protect them. |
| • |
See your dentist regularly: Regular dental checkups and cleanings can help identify and treat cracked teeth before they become a serious problem. |
By following these tips, you can help keep your teeth healthy and strong and reduce your risk of developing a cracked tooth. However, even with the best oral care habits, cracked teeth can still occur. If you suspect you have a cracked tooth, it's important to see your dentist right away to get treatment.
|
|
