Cracked teeth are a common dental issue that patients often experience when there is a break in the tooth. Cracks in the teeth can range in severity from barely visible to extremely severe when the tooth splits in two.
Below is a summary of common things that cause the teeth to crack:
1. Grinding the teeth, which places a great deal of pressure on the teeth
2. Large fillings which compromise the tooth’s integrity
3. Chewing or biting down on something hard
4. Trauma to the mouth or an accident
5. Gum disease which can cause bone loss
6. Extreme and sudden changes in temperature inside the mouth
A cracked tooth can be difficult to diagnose as it does not always cause symptoms. Some of the common signs and symptoms include sporadic pain, especially when chewing, sensitivity to hot and cold, and swelling of the gums near the impacted tooth.
Patients can take over-the-counter pain medication for relief while waiting to be seen by the dentist.
Treatment
A cracked tooth can be serious and should be treated as soon as possible. Untreated cracked teeth can result in nerve damage, infection, or even the loss of the tooth. In some cases, the cracked tooth may require a root canal or need to be removed. Severe cracks can result in the tooth splitting into two separate pieces. When the tooth splits, it cannot be preserved and must be extracted.
When the tooth is damaged beyond repair, it unfortunately must be removed. The dentist will exhaust all treatment options before removing the tooth. Prompt treatment is critical in guaranteeing the best possible outcome. The best treatment will vary based on the severity and location of the crack. Below are treatments commonly used for restoring a cracked tooth.
Bonding
A plastic resin material is used to fill the crack. Bonding can aid in restoring the shape and appearance of a minor crack. It can also help repair small chips from the tooth’s biting edge.
Cosmetic Contouring
Contouring is typically used for small chips and cracks. Rough edges of the tooth are rounded out and polished to eliminate the crack.
Veneers
Veneers are a great solution when the tooth is healthy and has plenty of natural tooth structure remaining. Veneers have a long life span and require minimal removal of the natural tooth. Veneers are a very thin layer of porcelain or plastic which is bonded to the front of the tooth.
Crowns
Crowns are an excellent solution for cracks which are too large for a veneer. The crown fits over the tooth, restoring the tooth’s function and appearance. In cases of a crack which damages the nerve or when the tooth has become infected, patients may require to undergo a root canal before the crown can be placed. During a root canal, all infections are removed from inside the tooth. The dentist or endodontist then cleans the root and fills it to prevent additional infection. A crown is then placed to restore the function and appearance of the tooth.
A cracked tooth will unfortunately not heal on its own without intervention. Following treatment, it is possible for the crack to become worse. In some cases, this may result in the loss of the tooth. It is critical for patients with a cracked tooth to seek treatment from a dental professional as soon as possible. The failure to treat a cracked tooth can allow for the damage to become worse and even result in the loss of the tooth. Patients should follow up with a dentist right away to discuss their treatment options.
