How Do You Fix A Cracked Tooth?
Having a cracked tooth can be a scary experience. If you have recently noticed a crack or chip in your tooth, you may be wondering how to go about fixing it. Cracked teeth can range from minor to severe, and the treatment for each varies greatly. Fortunately, a few solutions are available to repair a cracked tooth and restore it to its full functionality. This blog post will discuss the various options available to fix a cracked tooth and the steps you can take to protect your tooth from further damage. Learn more about repairing a cracked tooth and restoring your smile!
What Causes Teeth to Crack?
Teeth can crack due to various causes, including injury or trauma to the mouth, chewing on hard objects such as ice, grinding teeth at night, and using your teeth to open containers. In addition, certain medical conditions can weaken the structure of the teeth and make them more susceptible to cracking. Aging and wear and tear are also common causes of cracked teeth.
The Different Types of Cracks in Teeth
When a tooth cracks, the break can vary from minor to severe. Depending on the type of crack, the treatment options may vary. Here are some of the most common types of cracks in teeth:
- Craze lines: These tiny cracks appear on the tooth's surface and usually don't require treatment. Craze lines are usually caused by wear and tear or grinding.
- Fractured cusp: This type of crack is characterized by a large fracture affecting the tooth's cusp or top point. Treatment may involve a crown or other restoration to protect the fractured cusp.
- Split tooth: This is a more severe form of a cracked tooth. The split typically runs horizontally through the middle of the tooth, affecting both sides. This type of crack requires professional treatment, such as root canal therapy or extraction.
- Vertical root fracture: This crack is located underneath the gum line and extends vertically down the tooth's root. It is usually caused by trauma or repeated dental procedures. Treatment may involve extraction or root canal therapy.
How to Repair a Cracked Tooth
A cracked tooth can be repaired in various ways depending on the severity of the crack. Your dentist can often repair it with a filling or crown. However, root canal therapy may be necessary if the crack is more severe and there is a risk of infection or extensive damage to the tooth.
When to Seek Professional Help
When it comes to a cracked tooth, it's important to seek professional help as soon as possible. If you experience sudden pain or discomfort or see visible signs of a crack, make an appointment with your dentist immediately. Even if the tooth looks and feels normal, a crack may still exist and require attention from a professional. Seeking professional help can help prevent further damage and provide the best cracked tooth treatment for your situation.
Cracked Tooth Repair in Forest Lake, MN
Forest Lake Endodontics specializes in endodontic treatments, including cracked tooth diagnosis and repair. Using advanced technologies and cutting-edge techniques to perform the highest quality treatments, our endodontists can diagnose and treat your cracked tooth with skill and precision. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you, or book an appointment online.