If you notice a crack in the root of one of your teeth or your dentist tells you that you have one, you might be rather concerned. What does having a crack in the tooth root mean for you? It's a serious dental condition that needs treatment as soon as possible.

What is a Tooth Root Crack?

Also called a root fracture, a crack in your tooth's root occurs when the tooth has been cracked, broken, or otherwise compromised, and it extends from the chewing surface down into the root of the tooth below the gumline. These cracks can be problematic, in part because they often aren't noticeable on routine dental exams or dental X-rays.

Root fractures can happen due to the following:

• Trauma: Teeth are strong but can only stand up to so much force. A strong impact or injury, such as a blow to the face, can cause trauma to teeth, including a root fracture.
• Weakened Tooth: If you have teeth that have received extensive dental treatments, like root canal therapy, they can become more fragile and, therefore, susceptible to damage, including root fractures.
• Bruxism: Teeth grinding or clenching, especially if severe and persistent, will put substantial pressure on the teeth, possibly causing root fractures over time.
• Chewing on Hard Objects: Frequent chewing on hard objects, including ice, pens, or fingernails, frequently weakens the tooth structure and increases the risk of chipped or damaged teeth as well as root fractures.
• Natural Wear and Tear: It's normal for your teeth to experience wear and tear over time. Unfortunately, this wear and tear might contribute to the development of root fractures, especially in older individuals.

Symptoms of a Tooth Root Fracture

Tooth root fracture symptoms aren't always apparent or can even mimic other dental problems. Common signs and symptoms of a root fracture you should be aware of include:

• Pain: The pain may come and go or be constant, depending on the extent and position of the fracture.
• Sensitivity to Temperature: Your tooth may be sensitive to hot or cold temperatures. For example, drinking hot coffee or tea or eating ice cream might be particularly uncomfortable or even painful.
• Swelling or Tenderness: The gum around the affected tooth may sometimes become swollen or tender.
• Discoloration: The tooth with a root fracture might look discolored or darker than your other teeth.
• Instability: The tooth can also feel loose or unstable.
• Abscess Formation: A root fracture can sometimes cause an abscess to form. An abscess is a pus-filled pocket at the tooth's root, causing severe pain and swelling.

Root Fracture Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosing a root fracture can be difficult, as the signs and symptoms aren't always definitive. Your dentist will usually complete a thorough examination, including taking dental X-rays and possibly using additional diagnostic tools, to confirm or rule out the presence of a root fracture.

The extent and location of the fracture will dictate the treatment options available. Sometimes, your dentist can perform a root canal procedure to remove the fractured part of the root and alleviate pain. However, suppose the fracture is extensive or involves the root tip. In that case, tooth extraction may be the best or even only option.

Do You Have a Tooth Root Crack? Forest Lake Endodontics Can Help

If you suspect you have a root fracture or are experiencing any dental pain or discomfort, seek prompt evaluation and treatment from one of our qualified dentists. Keep in mind that early detection and appropriate management will help preserve your tooth and prevent further complications.

Please call our office at 651-464-9888 or send us a message to schedule an appointment if you suspect a cracked tooth root.

You might need a root canal if there is a problem within your entire tooth, not just on the surface (as with a cavity). Tooth pain is frequently the initial sign that something is wrong deep down in the tooth. Still, other concerning symptoms such as tooth decay, tooth sensitivity, inflamed gums, cracks in the tooth, and tooth discoloration could also mean you need a root canal.

Being aware of the three primary signs that you might need a root canal can help you end the pain you might experience and—in many cases—save your tooth.

3 Signs You Might Need a Root Canal

Tooth discomfort is often problematic because it can be difficult to pinpoint exactly what the problem could be when it's still in the early stages. It's common to have a vague sense of discomfort in our mouths that we may not even associate with a particular tooth or area.

However, as time goes on, if you need a root canal (or even other dental work), it will become more evident. There are several warning signs that you might need a root canal; the following are the most common. If you experience any of them, you should make it a point to see a dentist as soon as possible.  

Persistent Tooth Pain and Sensitivity

If putting pressure on your tooth (such as when you eat) causes pain, you should get the tooth checked. Pain with chewing isn't normal and could mean you have a deeper issue, such as cracks or severe decay in or around the tooth.

Additionally, if drinking hot tea or coffee causes a toothache, it could indicate that your tooth enamel is compromised or your gum has receded around the tooth, exposing some of the root. Similarly, if it hurts when you eat or drink something cold, it's time to make a dentist appointment.

Tooth Discoloration

Having a discolored tooth doesn't automatically mean you need a root canal. In some cases, there may not be cause for concern as the discoloration may be related to hygiene or caused by frequently eating or drinking substances known to cause the teeth to darken, such as tea, coffee, wine, or certain spices.

However, if the discoloration is only on one tooth, it could indicate nerve or blood vessel damage, and you should contact your dentist as soon as possible.

Chipped or Cracked Tooth

Chips or cracks in a tooth can be caused by various accidents, playing contact sports, biting down on something hard, or chewing very hard or crunchy foods routinely. Even still, if a tooth becomes chipped or cracked, it should be repaired to stop harmful and unwanted bacteria from getting inside the tooth and causing an infection.

With many blood vessels in each tooth, a tooth infection can quickly spread to the bloodstream, which can cause even more severe issues. As such, you must call a dentist right away if you have a cracked or chipped tooth.

Are You Concerned About Your Teeth? Contact Forest Lake Endodontics Today

If you are experiencing any concerning symptoms, please call our office at 651-464-9888 or send us a message to request your treatment. We can get you in quickly to evaluate your teeth and determine the right course of treatment for your problem. 

Discovering a cracked tooth beneath a dental crown can be quite concerning. A cracked tooth not only compromises your oral health but also raises questions about the integrity of the crown. If your tooth is cracked under a crown, there are several steps you should take to ensure the best outcome possible.

Signs of a Cracked Tooth Beneath a Crown

Identifying a cracked tooth under a crown may require some observation and awareness. Common signs include:

• Persistent pain or discomfort.
• Vertical bone loss along a root
• Swelling
• Changes in the crown's appearance

Suppose you notice any of these symptoms or suspect a crack. In that case, it's essential to schedule an appointment with your dentist promptly.

Seek a Professional Dental Evaluation

When faced with a cracked tooth under a crown, the first step is to visit your dentist as soon as possible for a thorough evaluation. You could experience pain, infection, or other complications if left for too long.

Your dentist will examine the affected tooth, assess the extent of the crack, and determine the best course of action. They may use X-rays or other diagnostic imaging to help evaluate and provide a clear understanding of what is going on with your tooth and crown.

Treatment Options

The proper treatment for a cracked tooth under a crown depends on several factors, including:

• The severity and location of the crack
• The condition of the underlying tooth
• The integrity of the existing crown

Treatment options may include the following:

Crown Replacement

If the crown is undamaged and fits well, it may be possible to remove it, repair the crack in the underlying tooth, and then re-cement the crown back in its place. However, this option is only viable if the crown remains intact and is in good condition.

Crown and Tooth Restoration

In cases where the crack extends into the tooth structure or the crown is damaged, your dentist may recommend both crown replacement and tooth restoration. Doing so involves removing the damaged crown, addressing the crack in the tooth, and placing a new crown or an alternative restoration, such as a dental implant or bridge.

Tooth Extraction

In severe cases where the crack is extensive, or the tooth isn't saveable, tooth extraction may be necessary. To restore function and aesthetics, your dentist will discuss alternative tooth replacement options, such as dental implants or bridges.

Follow Post-Treatment Recommendations

After undergoing the necessary dental treatment for a cracked tooth under a crown, following your dentist's post-treatment recommendations is crucial. You should:

• Take any prescribed medications
• Practice good oral hygiene
• Avoid hard or sticky foods
• Attend follow-up appointments
• Maintain regular dental check-ups to monitor the restoration and overall oral health

Do You Have a Cracked Tooth? Contact Forest Lake Endodontics Today

Discovering a cracked tooth beneath a dental crown can be concerning. It's essential to seek prompt, professional dental evaluation and follow the recommended treatment. By addressing the issue early and working with your dentist, you can restore the health and function of your tooth while ensuring the long-term success of your dental restoration.

If you have a cracked tooth beneath a crown or other dental concerns, call Forest Lake Endodontics at  651-464-9888  or book an appointment online. We look forward to helping you achieve your dental health goals.

Root canal treatments can save a tooth that is severely infected or damaged due to deep decay, trauma, or other factors. An experienced dentist removes the infected pulp from the tooth's root canal system during the procedure. Then they clean and disinfect the area, fill the tooth and seal it to prevent further infection.

If your dentist recommends a root canal, you may wonder if this treatment is safe. Root canals are generally considered safe and effective dental procedures. Here's what you need to know about the procedure.

Local Anesthesia

Dentists usually perform root canals with patients under local anesthesia, ensuring that the area around the tooth is numb and the patient is comfortable throughout the procedure. Dentists also take additional measures so that patients experience minimal pain or discomfort during the treatment process.

Infection Control

Root canal treatment should eliminate infection and prevent its recurrence. By removing the infected pulp, cleaning the root canal, and sealing it, your dentist aims to eliminate the source of the infection and promote healing while saving the tooth. Using antimicrobial solutions and disinfectants during the procedure further enhances its effectiveness in removing bacteria.

Advanced Techniques and Technology

Thankfully, dentistry has evolved significantly over the years, and root canal procedures benefit from its advanced techniques and technology. These technological advances make root canals even safer than they were before.

Dentists now have access to improved instruments, such as rotary files, which make the procedure more efficient and precise. Additionally, digital imaging techniques allow for better visualization and diagnosis of the affected tooth.

Your Dentist's Expertise

The safety and success of a root canal procedure will naturally depend on the dentist's skill and expertise. Choosing a qualified and experienced dentist who regularly performs root canals is essential to ensure optimal outcomes. Our dentists have extensive training and experience in endodontics (the branch of dentistry focusing on root canal treatment) to provide safe and effective patient care.

Post-Treatment Care

After a root canal, it's crucial that you follow your dentist's post-treatment instructions to ensure proper healing and long-term success. Your should:

• Take any prescribed medications
• Maintain good oral hygiene
• Attend follow-up appointments to monitor the tooth's progress

As with any medical or dental procedure, rare complications are sometimes associated with root canals. However, with proper diagnosis, treatment planning, and execution by a skilled dentist, the risks are minimal. Open communication with your dentist is essential. 

At Forest Lake Endodontics, our dental providers will address any questions or concerns you may have so that you can fully understand the procedure and its expected outcomes.

Questions about Root Canals? Contact Forest Lake Endodontics Today

If you have specific concerns about the safety of a root canal procedure, it's best to consult with an experienced dentist who can assess your individual case and provide personalized advice based on your dental health. Call Forest Lake Endodontics at  651-464-9888  or book an appointment online to learn more about root canals and how we ensure your safety during and after the procedure.

No two people are the same, and therefore recovery times from endodontic surgeries may vary from person to person. However, after two weeks of endodontic surgery, most people will be free of pain, tenderness, or swelling. That said, because the surgery does involve the jaw, complete healing may take a few months. Your unique recovery time may also depend upon the type of procedure you have performed and how well you follow your post-surgery instructions. Here’s what to expect if you need endodontic surgery.

Why is Endodontic Surgery Done?

Surgery is always a last resort, so endodontic surgery will only be performed if non-surgical treatments are unable to treat your condition. For example, if a root canal does not alleviate pain or infection, it may be due to a problem with the tip of the root, which must be removed. 

In other cases, a cracked tooth may not be able to be saved with a root canal and a dental crown and will require surgery to treat. In rare cases, endodontic surgery may be needed if the tissues surrounding the root begin to resorb the tooth’s root.

Types of Endodontic Surgeries

The overarching goal of endodontic surgeries is to prevent the loss of teeth. However, each type of surgery has specific goals.

Apicoectomy

An apicoectomy is also called apical surgery. This type of endodontic surgery is performed to remove the tip of an irritated or inflamed tooth root. During this surgery, any surrounding soft tissue that is also inflamed or irritated will be removed. 

Root Resorption

During a root resorption surgery, your endodontist will expose the areas of the root being affected, and remove the tissue that is resorbing the root. Surgery for root resorption may also include a root canal. 

Hemisection

Teeth that have cracked in a root may be saved through an endodontic surgery known as a hemisection or root amputation. This surgery removes the injured section of the tooth and a proportionate part of the root. You may need a hemisection or root amputation if:

• A molar has developed a vertical fracture due to trauma or decay
• You’ve lost a significant amount of jawbone, and the stability of the tooth is in jeopardy
• The pulp chamber floor inside the tooth has been perforated
• A root canal has failed
• Gum disease is damaging the space between tooth roots, and surgery is necessary to prevent further jawbone loss

Tips for a Healthy Recovery from Endodontic Surgery

Your recovery from endodontic surgery will depend in large part on how well you follow your post-operative instructions. To that end, you must:

• Take all medication as prescribed
• Ice the area as prescribed
• Avoid smoking, vaping, dipping, or any form of smokeless tobacco
• Avoid using straws
• Keep the surgical area clean in keeping with your endodontist’s recommendations
• Avoid chewing with the tooth that was treated
• Do not touch the sutures
• Avoid lifting the lips to examine the sutures
• Avoid physical activity for at least 24 hours
• Get plenty of rest
• Avoid brushing or flossing the treated area as advised
• Use all mouth rinses as prescribed
• Avoid hard, crunchy, or chewing foods for the first few days

If at any time during your recovery period, you experience ongoing bleeding or extreme swelling, notify your endodontist immediately.

Schedule Your Endodontic Surgery in Forest Lake, MN

Forest Lake Endodontics is a top endodontic practice serving residents of Forest Lake, Stillwater, Blaine, Maplewood, Woodbury, White Bear Lake, Hugo, and surrounding communities. To book your appointment call  651-464-9888 , or send us a message.