It can hurt like hell to deal with a fractured tooth. A tooth crack, caused by trauma, overuse, or biting down on something hard, can be painful and make even the most basic tasks, like chewing and speaking, more difficult. Relax, though; you’re not alone in this, and a cracked tooth can be successfully treated in a few ways. Here, you’ll find information on what to do if you think you have a tooth crack, how to alleviate any discomfort, and what your dentist may suggest as a course of treatment.

Understanding Cracked Teeth

Identifying the many kinds of cracks that can happen is a prerequisite to discussing possible treatments. The therapy required for a crack will vary according to its nature and degree of severity.

Types of Cracks:

  • Craze Lines: These are little fissures that show up on the tooth’s enamel surface. Because they don’t hurt or compromise the tooth’s structure, these frequent adult teeth problems usually don’t need treatment.
  • Fractured Cusp: Dental fillings are a common location for fractured cusps to form. The pulp, or the inner part of the tooth, is normally unaffected, and the pain is usually minimal. Nevertheless, treatment could be necessary to prevent additional harm to the tooth.
  • Cracked Tooth: An example of a cracked tooth would start on the chewing surface and go all the way down to the root. This can damage the pulp and provide excruciating pain, depending on how deep the crack is. To stop the crack from getting worse, therapy must be administered quickly.
  • Split Tooth: A split tooth is one in which a fissure has spread from the tooth’s crown to its base, thus separating the tooth in half. Extraction is typically necessary due to the severity of this illness.
  • Vertical Root Fracture: A vertical root fracture is one in which the fissures begin at the tooth’s base and progress upwards. These are less prevalent and typically don’t show any signs until they start harming the gums and bone around the affected area.

What to Do If You Suspect a Cracked Tooth

Take immediate action to stop additional damage and relieve any discomfort you may feel if you suspect you have a fractured tooth. I have some advice for you:

  • Rinse Your Mouth with Warm Water: Rinse your mouth with warm water to maintain a clean region and eliminate any debris that could irritate you.
  • Avoid Chewing on the Affected Side: If possible, try not to chew with the cracked tooth. This will help keep your bite from becoming worse. Bite only on soft foods; avoid sticky or firm ones.
  • Use a Cold Compress: If your cheek has swollen due to the crack, try applying a cold compress to the exterior. In addition to numbing the area and reducing swelling, this can also help alleviate pain.
  • Take Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: You can alleviate pain with over-the-counter pain medicines like ibuprofen while waiting to visit a dentist.
  • Get in Touch with Your Dentist: Without further ado, schedule an appointment with the dentist. The promptness with which you treat the crack increases your chances of preserving the tooth and avoiding other problems.

Treatment Options for a Cracked Tooth

Once you visit the dentist, they will examine the fracture and advise you on the most appropriate therapy. A few of the most typical choices are these:

Bonding

Your dentist may suggest bonding for small fractures. The procedure entails filling the fissure with tooth-coloured resin and curing it under a specific light. Bonding can restore teeth cosmetically and functionally.

Crown

If the crack is more extensive, a crown may be required. A crown, a cap that surrounds the tooth, can protect and strengthen the full tooth. Multiple porcelain, ceramic, and metal materials can be used to produce crowns.

Root Canal

A root canal is sometimes necessary when a crack has progressed to the pulp chamber. After the pulp is removed, cleaned, and sealed inside the tooth, a crown is placed on top of the tooth to protect it.

Extraction

If the crack is too big to fix, the tooth might have to be pulled out. This is an extreme measure, but it may be necessary to save your gums and mouth from additional harm.

Preventing Cracked Teeth

There may be no foolproof technique to avoid getting a fractured tooth. However, you can lessen your chances by:

  • Avoid Chewing Hard Objects: Avoid grinding your teeth on hard foods like ice, sweets, and popcorn kernels.
  • Protect Your Teeth with a Mouthguard: Whether you engage in contact sports or clench your jaw while you sleep, a mouthguard helps keep your teeth safe.
  • Don’t Use Your Teeth as Tools: Never open a container or package with your teeth.
  • Regular Dental Check-Ups: Visits to the dentist regularly can detect little fissures before they become significant issues.

Final Thoughts

Even though it’s not fun, quick treatment can save a cracked tooth and get your oral health back on track. The best course of action when dealing with a cracked tooth is to get professional aid as soon as possible.

Do not hesitate to contact Kitchener Dentist Sherwood Dental if you feel discomfort or think you may have a cracked tooth. If you need medical attention, our staff is available to help. Contact us immediately at 519-576-2170 if you have any questions about your treatment options or want to schedule an appointment.

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.