A fractured tooth occurs due to age, tooth grinding, injury, or other factors. You might notice pain, sensitivity, or swelling in teeth. At times, you may not have any signs of a fractured tooth.
A broken tooth is a nightmare! It may make you feel sick and cause pain while eating. Even though enamel that protects your teeth is the hardest, most mineralized tissues have their strength limitations. If you discover a broken or chipped tooth, don’t panic. Visit our dentist; we can help you fix the tooth fracture and regain your confidence.
What is a Fractured Tooth?
When a crack appears in your tooth, it’s known as a fractured tooth. Sometimes, the crack is small and harmless. Or it can cause your tooth to break or split into two parts. They are also known as cracked tooth or cracked tooth syndrome (CTS).
Anyone can crack a tooth; however, it is commonly found among children and older people.
The most common cause of a fractured tooth includes:
- Age
- Biting Hard Foods
- Eating Habits
- Dental Fillings or Root Canal
- Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
- Accidents or Trauma
Cracked Tooth Syndrome (CTS) Symptoms
A fractured tooth can present a range of symptoms, and the severity of these symptoms may vary depending on the extent and location of the fracture. Here are some common symptoms to watch out for if you suspect you have a fractured tooth:
- Pain or Discomfort
One of the most common symptoms of a fractured tooth is pain. The level of pain can range from mild to severe, and it may be constant or intermittent. The intensity of the pain can increase when you bite, chew, or consume hot or cold foods and drinks.
- Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity is another common sign. You may feel a sharp, shooting pain when your tooth is exposed to hot or cold temperatures or sweet, acidic, or sugary foods and beverages.
- Swelling and Inflammation
If the fracture extends into the pulp (the innermost part of the tooth), it can lead to inflammation and swelling of the surrounding gums and tissues.
- Bleeding Gums
If the fractured tooth has sharp edges or if it has damaged the gums, you may experience bleeding when brushing or flossing.
What are the Types of Tooth Fractures?
From the given five categories, your dentist will identify your fractured teeth:
- Cracked Tooth
It’s a vertical crack that occurs while biting the surface of the tooth up to your gum line. At times, it extends into your gum line and roots.
- Craze Tooth
It’s a small, thin crack appearing on the outer surface of your enamel. However, it doesn’t cause pain.
- Fractured Cusp
It’s a crack formed around the dental filling. Usually, it’s not too painful.
- Split Tooth
It’s a crack extending from your tooth’s surface to below the gum line. This fracture splits your teeth into two parts.
- Vertical Root Fracture
It starts below the gum line and ends towards the tooth’s biting surface. It may show no symptoms until your tooth becomes infected.
Cracked Tooth Syndrome Treatment
The treatment depends upon the amount of damage caused to your tooth. Following are some common cracked tooth pain treatment:
- Dental Bonding
It’s ideal for chipped or minor cracks in the tooth. It involves applying a tooth-coloured resin to the damaged area and shaping it to match the tooth. It’s quick and cost-effective.
- Dental Veneers
This fracture procedure is suitable for more extensive damage or cosmetic improvement. It involves bonding the front of the tooth with thin porcelain shells. It’s a little more expensive than dental bonding but provides a natural appearance and long-lasting results.
- Dental Crown
Dental Crown is used for severely cracked or broken teeth, mainly caused by major accidents. The dentist will cap the damaged area, covering the entire teeth to restore its strength and appearance. Furthermore, it offers protection against further damage.
- Root Canal Therapy
It’s used in extreme cases when a fracture reaches the pulp. This process involves removing infection or damaged tissues. Onwards, the dentist will cleanse the root canal and seal it. It preserves the fractured tooth while eliminating pain.
To Conclude:
A beautiful smile works wonders. From boosting confidence to keeping you healthy, teeth play a crucial role in making an everlasting impression. Tooth fractures are common dental issues that can affect your smile and self-confidence.
Tooth fractures can be distressing. But with prompt dental care and the proper treatment, you can regain your confidence. The key is to consult with a dentist who specializes in assessing the severity of the fracture and recommend the best suitable treatment option that fits your fractured tooth.
For more information regarding Fractured Tooth treatment, connect with us today. We will be happy to assist you.
Keep Smiling!
FAQ
1.What are the common causes of tooth fractures?
Tooth fractures can occur due to various reasons, including accidents, falls, sports injuries, or biting into hard objects.
2.How do I know if I have a cracked or fractured tooth?
Symptoms may include tooth pain, sensitivity, discomfort when chewing, and visible cracks or chips. A dentist can diagnose it through a dental exam and X-rays.
3.What are the treatment options for a fractured tooth?
Treatment depends on the severity of the fracture. Options include dental bonding, dental crowns, root canals, and in severe cases, tooth extraction.
4.Is it possible to fix a chipped front tooth for cosmetic reasons?
Yes, chipped front teeth can often be restored using cosmetic dentistry procedures such as dental veneers or dental bonding.
5.How long does it take to recover from a tooth fracture treatment?
Recovery time varies depending on the treatment. Some procedures may require multiple visits, while others can be completed in a single appointment.