Cracked Tooth
Cracked and fractured teeth are common dental issues, especially as people retain their natural teeth for longer periods due to advancements in dental technology. Various factors such as biting on hard objects, trauma, or teeth grinding, can cause teeth to crack. These behaviors exert additional strain on the teeth, making them more susceptible to damage.
When tooth enamel is cracked, it can lead to temporary but intense pain. Discomfort might not be felt when there’s no pressure on the crack, but biting actions can widen it, exposing the tooth’s inner structures and causing irritation. As pressure is released, the crack may fuse back together, alleviating the pain temporarily. Without treatment, the pulp can be irreversibly damaged, leading to constant pain and potential infection spreading to the surrounding bone and soft tissue.
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Symptoms of a cracked tooth may include:
Various types of cracks can affect teeth, each requiring specific treatment approaches. Crazes, tiny vertical cracks on the tooth surface, often don’t necessitate health-related treatment but can be addressed cosmetically. Oblique supragingival cracks affect only the crown and may break off without much pain. Oblique subgingival cracks extend beyond the gum line, requiring periodontal and endodontic treatments. Vertical furcation cracks separate tooth roots and may be saved with root canal therapy and a crown. Oblique root cracks occur below the gum line, often leading to extraction as the primary option. Vertical apical root cracks, occurring at the root tip, can be painful and may eventually require extraction, despite temporary relief from root canal therapy.
The treatment for cracked teeth varies based on the type and severity of the crack. Root canal therapy is often the preferred option for cracks affecting the tooth root. During this procedure, the pulp, nerves, and vessels are removed, and the space is filled to stabilize the tooth. Severe cases might necessitate extraction, leading to restorative options like bridges, dental implants, or partial dentures to restore normal dental functions.
For any concerns about cracked teeth, it’s advisable to consult your dentist for proper evaluation and guidance.
