Cracked Tooth Treatments
A cracked tooth is a common dental issue for patients of all ages. Various things can cause the issue such as grinding the teeth, chewing on hard objects or food, or damage which naturally occurs over time.
Below is a summary of the common causes for a cracked tooth:
- Chewing on hard food or biting down on objects
- Extreme pressure from grinding
- Fillings which are large and compromise the integrity of the tooth
- Injury, accident, or trauma
- Sudden temperature changes in the mouth
- Wear and tear associated with the natural aging process
Symptoms of a cracked tooth can include pain, especially when chewing, sensitivity to hot or cold, swollen gums, and pain. Depending on the severity of the issue, the patient may not experience any symptoms.
Because a crack in the tooth is not always visible and may not result in symptoms, it can be difficult to diagnose the issue. It can also be challenging to see a crack on a dental x-ray. The dentist may do the following when working to diagnose a crack in the tooth.
- Discuss habits and dental history
- Perform a thorough visual examination
- Use dental tools to feel the crack or catch on an edge
- Use special dye to expose the crack
- Examine or probe the gums for any signs of inflammation
- Obtain dental x-rays
- Bite down on stick or expose the tooth to cold air
Treatment will vary based on the severity of the issue and the patient’s individual needs. Below is a summary of treatment commonly used to restore a cracked tooth.
Bonding
A plastic resin material is used to fill in the crack. Bonding can also in restoring the function and appearance of the tooth.
Dental Crown
A dental crown is commonly made from porcelain or ceramic and fits securely over the damaged tooth. When fitting a crown, the dentist will need to remove some of the natural tooth’s enamel. This helps ensure the crown fits properly over the damaged tooth. Dental professionals obtain impressions of the damaged tooth to ensure the crown has a natural appearance. The impression is sent to a dental lab which creates the crown. Temporary crowns are typically used while the lab creates the permanent crown. The entire process for a crown takes a few weeks on average to complete. The dentist will fit the permanent crown and cement it into place over the cracked tooth.
In some cases, a porcelain crown can be made in the office and placed the same day. When crowns are properly cared for, they can last for many years.
When the crack extends into the pulp of the tooth, a root canal is often needed. During this procedure, the dental professional will remove any damaged pulp and infection. A crown will then be placed over the damaged tooth to restore its function and appearance.
Extraction
When the crack is severe and the tooth is damaged beyond repair, the dentist may need to remove the tooth. Dental professionals will exhaust all treatment options prior to extracting the natural tooth. Patients can also discuss tooth-replacement options such as a dental implant.
Patients often have small cracks on the outer layer of the tooth’s enamel. A crack which is not visible or does not cause symptoms often can be left alone without treatment. If a patient suspects that they have a cracked tooth, they should contact their dentist to determine the severity of the issue. Cracked teeth which remain untreated can result in additional damage and long-term issues. The dentist can review treatment options with the patient and discuss the expected outcome.