A fractured tooth can be quite painful—literally. A crack in your tooth, whether caused by biting down on something hard, an injury or simply wear and tear over time, can cause discomfort and make daily activities such as eating and speaking difficult. But don’t worry, you’re not alone, and various effective treatments for a damaged tooth exist. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best measures to take if you suspect a crack in your tooth, how to manage the pain, and what treatments your dentist may offer.
Understanding Cracked Teeth
Before delving into treatment alternatives, it’s critical to understand the many types of cracks that might develop. Not all cracks are created equal, and the treatment required will vary depending on their form and severity.
Types of Cracks:
- Craze Lines are small, superficial fissures in the tooth’s enamel. They are prevalent in adults and rarely require treatment because they do not cause pain or impair the tooth’s structure.
- Fractured Cusp: This sort of crack typically appears near a dental filling. It rarely affects the pulp (the inner part of the tooth) and produces little discomfort. However, therapy may be required to keep the tooth from additional damage.
- Cracked Tooth: A crack extending from the chewing surface to the root. Depending on the depth of the crack, this might damage the pulp and cause substantial discomfort. Early treatment is critical for preventing the crack from expanding.
- Split Tooth: This occurs when a break extends from the tooth’s surface to the root, resulting in two pieces. It is a serious condition that usually necessitates extraction.
- Vertical Root Fracture: Cracks begin at the root and progress upward. They are less prevalent and usually cause only minor symptoms until the surrounding bone and gum become infected.
What to Do If You Suspect a Cracked Tooth
If you suspect you have a fractured tooth, act fast to avoid any damage and relieve any pain you may be suffering. Here’s what you need to do:
- Rinse Your Mouth with Warm Water: To maintain cleanliness and prevent irritation.
- Avoid Chewing on the Affected Side: Avoid using the damaged tooth. Stick to soft foods and avoid biting into anything hard or sticky.
- Use a Cold Compress: If the crack has caused swelling, apply a cold compress to the outside of the face. This can help reduce swelling and numb the region, giving you some relief from pain.
- Take Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: Use over-the-counter pain medicines like ibuprofen to manage pain until a dentist appointment.
- Contact Your Dentist: Schedule an appointment with your dentist right away. The sooner you fix the crack, the greater your chances of saving the tooth and avoiding future difficulties.
Treatment Options for a Cracked Tooth
Once you get to the dentist, they will examine the crack and prescribe the best course of action. Here are a few of the most popular options:
Bonding
Your dentist may suggest bonding for tiny cracks. This entails adding tooth-coloured resin to the crack, which is subsequently cemented using a specific light. Bonding can help restore the tooth’s appearance and function.
Crown
If the crack is more significant, a crown may be required. A crown is a cap covering the tooth, providing strength and protection. Crowns can be formed from various materials, such as porcelain, ceramic, or metal.
Root Canal
A root canal may be required if the crack has penetrated the pulp. This technique involves removing the injured pulp, cleaning and sealing the inside of the tooth, and placing a crown on top to protect the tooth.
Extraction
The tooth may have to be removed when the break is too serious to heal. While this is a last resort, avoiding further damage to your mouth and gums may be necessary.
Preventing Cracked Teeth
While it is not always possible to avoid a fractured tooth, there are several things you may do to lessen your risk:
- Avoid Chewing Hard Objects: This includes ice, sweets, and popcorn kernels.
- Wear a Mouthguard: To protect your teeth during contact sports or nighttime grinding.
- Don’t Use Your Teeth as Tools: Do not use your teeth as a tool for opening packages or bottles.
- Regular Dental Check-Ups: Regular dental check-ups can detect minor cracks and prevent larger issues.
Final Thoughts
A cracked tooth can be uncomfortable and frustrating, but with quick treatment, you can save the tooth and improve your oral health. Remember, the best method to address a cracked tooth is to act quickly and get professional assistance.
If you have a cracked tooth or are experiencing dental discomfort, please contact Waterloo Dental Centre. Our team is here to give you the best care possible. Contact us today at 519-883-0505 to make an appointment, or visit our office to explore your treatment choices.
DISCLAIMER: The advice offered is intended to be informational only and generic in nature. It is in no way offering a definitive diagnosis or specific treatment recommendations for your particular situation. Any advice offered is no substitute for proper evaluation and care by a qualified dentist.