A cracked tooth can be a source of discomfort and affect your daily routine – compromising your oral health. Whether it’s due to an injury, grinding your teeth, or biting down on hard foods, prompt treatment is essential to prevent further damage. At San Diego Healthy Smiles in Chula Vista and Lakeside, Dr. Cluff and her team are dedicated to providing effective solutions for treating cracked teeth, ensuring your smile stays healthy and pain-free.
Cracks in teeth can vary in severity, from minor surface cracks to more significant fractures that affect the tooth’s structure. Common types include:
Craze Lines
These are superficial cracks in the enamel that often cause no pain and require minimal treatment.
Fractured Cusp
This occurs when a piece of the tooth’s chewing surface breaks off, usually not affecting the pulp and there’s minimal pain experienced.
Cracked Tooth
This type of crack extends from the chewing surface toward the root, potentially affecting the pulp and causing more intermittent pain.
Vertical Root Fracture
These begin at the root and extend toward the chewing surface, often not showing symptoms until the surrounding bone and gum become affected.
Steps for Treating a Cracked Tooth
The first step in treating a cracked tooth is a thorough dental exam. This may include visual inspection, dental X-rays, and possibly a dye test to highlight the crack.
Treatment Options:
Bonding: For minor cracks, a composite resin can be used to fill the crack and restore the tooth’s appearance and function.
Crown: A dental crown may be needed for more significant damage to cover and protect the tooth, restoring its shape and strength.
Root Canal: If the crack has affected the pulp, a root canal treatment might be required to remove the damaged pulp, clean the root canal, and seal it.
Extraction: If the tooth cannot be saved, extraction might be the only option, followed by a dental implant or bridge to replace the missing tooth.
Preventive Measures and Aftercare
Preventing further damage is important. Avoid chewing hard foods, wear a mouthguard if you grind your teeth, and maintain regular dental check-ups. Dr. Cluff at San Diego Healthy Smiles emphasizes the importance of early intervention to preserve your natural teeth and maintain your oral health.
