As much as we hate to admit it, accidents happen, and sometimes those accidents can lead to a cracked tooth. Whether it’s from biting into something hard or getting hit in the mouth during sports, a cracked tooth can cause discomfort and affect your daily life.
Fortunately, Purple Dental offers various professional methods for repairing a cracked tooth that can help restore function and aesthetics. At your next appointment, Dr. Poornima and Dr. Sam can help you explore your options in detail so you can make an informed decision if you ever find yourself with a cracked tooth.
By familiarizing yourself with these types of dental cracks, you can better understand the implications of a cracked tooth and seek appropriate professional help. Understanding the different types of dental cracks is essential for identifying the appropriate treatment.
Craze Lines: These are very fine, superficial cracks that only affect the outer enamel of the tooth. Craze lines are usually not harmful and do not require treatment unless they lead to further complications.
Fractured Cusp: This type of crack occurs when a portion of the chewing surface of the tooth breaks off. It often results from excessive pressure on a weakened tooth and may require dental treatment to restore its function.
Cracked Tooth: A cracked tooth is typically characterized by a fracture that extends from the chewing surface down towards the root. This type of crack can cause pain and sensitivity, especially when chewing.
Split Tooth: When a cracked tooth progresses further, it can split into two distinct segments. This type of injury usually necessitates extraction of the split tooth, especially if the fracture extends below the gum line.
Vertical Root Fracture: This type of crack occurs within the root of the tooth and usually begins at the apex and extends towards the crown. Often, vertical root fractures go unnoticed until an infection occurs.
Teeth, unlike many other parts of the body, do not possess the ability to heal themselves once they are damaged. This is mainly because teeth lack living cells and a blood supply, which are essential for the healing process. Instead, when a tooth is cracked, the damage may worsen over time, potentially leading to more severe issues such as infections or tooth loss.
Cracked tooth repair typically involves several options, depending on the type and severity of the crack. For minor cracks, dental bonding can be applied to restore the tooth’s appearance and function. For more significant damage, dental crowns might be required to encase and protect the tooth while providing strength.
Understanding these repair options highlights the importance of seeking prompt dental care whenever a crack is detected. Timely intervention is vital, as it can prevent further complications and more severe issues requiring extensive treatment. If you’re worried about dental damage, contact Purple Dental for fast cracked tooth repair in Glastonbury, CT.
