Cracked Teeth & Extractions
In many cases, oral health issues occur when patients least expect it. Dental injuries can be surprising and even overwhelming to deal with. One issue which is quite common and can cause serious damage is a cracked tooth. Cracked teeth can be incredibly painful and cause serious discomfort. Severe cracks can cause significant damage, even splitting the tooth in two.
One fear a patient often has regarding a cracked tooth is if the tooth requires removal. The answer is not straightforward as there are treatments available, but sometimes extraction is necessary. The dentist will work to preserve the natural tooth and only extract a tooth when there is no other option. Treatment options vary based on the severity of the crack.
In most cases, a cracked tooth will result in sensitivity. Another common symptom is pain, which is often made worse by chewing or biting down on the affected tooth. Hot, cold, and sugary things can worsen the issue. When the patient has ongoing sensitivity, it is a sign that there is an issue and patients should follow up with the dentist.
Below is a summary of things dentists will do during the visit:
- Examination the oral health of the patient
- Determine if there are any underlying health issues which could cause the symptoms
- Other issues which can cause pain and sensitivity include decay, gum disease, and infection
- Detect if a crack is present and evaluate the severity of the crack
These things will all help the dentist determine the best treatment options to resolve the issue. Common treatments used to repair a cracked tooth are summarized below. The best treatment depends on the severity of the issue and the patient’s unique case.
Dental Crown
Dental crowns are often used in treating cracked teeth. Crowns help restore function and protect the tooth from additional damage. In some cases, patients may have a minor crack which affects the tooth’s outer layer and does not cause any symptoms. Minor cracks may not require treatment.
Root Canal
Patients with a cracked tooth who otherwise have good oral health may receive a root canal. Cracks which have not yet impacted the gums or caused tooth decay often receive a root canal for treatment. A root canal is a highly effective treatment option which can be effective in preserving the natural truth. There are many misconceptions associated with root canals regarding the amount of pain and poor outcomes. In reality, a root canal can actually save the tooth and prevent extraction.
During a root canal, infection is removed and the tooth is sealed to prevent further damage. Because the root canal is enlarged, a temporary filling is typically used. Once the mouth heals, the dentist will place a crown over the damaged tooth. Crowns restore both the function and appearance of the tooth.
Tooth Extraction
In cases of a severe crack or a crack which splits the tooth in two, the tooth typically needs to be removed. An extraction may also be needed if the patient has advanced gum disease or severe decay.
During an extraction, the dental professional will use anesthesia to make the affected area numb. They will then break the tooth into smaller pieces. Forceps or hand tools are then used to slowly remove the tooth from its socket. The mouth will be sore and sensitive immediately following the removal. After a few days, a blood clot will form and patients can resume normal activities.
Any patient who suspects that they have a cracked tooth should contact their dentist right away. The dentist can determine the severity of the issue and discuss treatment options. A cracked tooth may require extraction, however, there are also treatment options which can be used to restore the damaged tooth.