A fractured tooth can be uncomfortable. Whether from a strong bite, an injury or just wear and tear over time, a cracked tooth can cause pain and complicate daily tasks, including eating and speaking. Still, you’re not alone, and there are various sensible approaches to handling a damaged tooth. This guide will walk you through the best actions to take when you suspect a crack in your tooth, how to control the pain, and what treatments your dentist could advise.

Recognizing Cracked Teeth

Before exploring treatment choices, one should be aware of the several kinds of cracks that could develop. Different types and degrees of cracks require different treatments; not all cracks are created equal.

Types of Cracks:

  • Craze Lines: Little, surface-based fissures known as craze lines appear on the teeth outside the enamel. Common in adults, they usually do not require treatment as they neither impact the tooth’s structure nor produce discomfort.
  • Fractured Cusp: This kind of crack usually develops around a dental filling. It usually causes little discomfort and has little effect on the pulp—that inner portion of the tooth. To save the tooth from further harm, though, therapy might be required.
  • Cracked Tooth: A cracked tooth starts from the chewing surface and runs down towards the root. The depth of the break will determine how much pulp is affected and create major discomfort. Early treatment is vital to stop the fracture from expanding.
  • Split Tooth: The tooth has been essentially split in two from the surface to the root via a crack. This is a serious disorder that sometimes needs extraction.
  • Vertical Root Fractures: Beginning in the root, these cracks climb upward. They are less common and usually cause little symptoms until the surrounding bone and gum are compromised.

How Should One Handle Suspected Cracked Teeth?

Should you believe you have a cracked tooth, you should move fast to stop more damage and reduce any discomfort you might be going through. Here’s what to do:

  • Rinse Your Mouth with Warm Water: Aid to keep the area clean and eliminate any potential irritant particles.
  • Avoid Chewing on the Affected Side: Whenever feasible, utilize the damaged tooth. Stay with soft foods; avoid biting down anything hard or sticky.
  • Use a Cold Compress: On the outside of your cheek if the crack has produced swelling. This can assist somewhat ease discomfort by helping to numb the area and lower swelling.
  • Take Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: Such as ibuprofen, to help control your pain until you can see a dentist.
  • Visit Your Dentist: Don’t wait to schedule a dental visit. The sooner you solve the fracture, the higher your chances of saving the tooth and avoiding more problems.

Methods of Treatment for a Cracked Tooth

The dentist will evaluate the crack once you are there and suggest the best line of action. The most often used choices are listed here:

Bonding

Your dentist could advise bonding for small cracks. This entails filling the fracture with tooth-coloured resin and hardening it under light. Bonding can make a tooth look and function again.

Crown

Should the crack be more significant, a crown could be required. A crown covers the whole tooth and offers strength and protection. Crowns can be created from porcelain, ceramic, and metal, among other materials.

Root Canal

Should the break have advanced into the pulp, a root canal could be required. The injured pulp is extracted, the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed, and a crown is put on top to guard the tooth during this process.

Extraction

Should the crack be too significant for treatment, the tooth could have to be removed. Although this is a last resort, it is occasionally required to prevent further damage to the gums and mouth.

Preventing Cracked Teeth

Though a broken tooth cannot always be avoided, there are several actions you can do to lower your risk:

  • Avoid Chewing Hard Objects: Including popcorn kernels, ice, and hard candy.
  • Wear a Mouthguard: It can help save your teeth, whether you grind your teeth at night or engage in contact sports.
  • Don’t Use Your Teeth as Tools: Do not open packets or bottles with your teeth as tools.
  • Frequent Dental Check-Ups: Frequent dental appointments enable your dentist to find little cracks before they become more significant issues.

Final Thoughts

Though it can be painful and distressing, a cracked tooth can be saved, and your oral health can be restored with quick treatment. Recall that seeking professional assistance and acting fast can help you manage a cracked tooth effectively.

See Guelph Royal Dental Centre if you believe you have a damaged tooth or are experiencing dental discomfort. Our staff is here to deliver you the best treatment available. Call 519-837-1870 now to arrange an appointment or visit our office to review your treatment alternatives.

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.