5 Best Treatment Options for Cracked Teeth

January 29, 2024, Maple Ridge Family Dental

Cracked teeth are a common dental problem that can cause pain, sensitivity, infection, and even tooth loss.

Cracks can occur due to various reasons, such as trauma, decay, grinding, biting hard objects, or aging.

Depending on the severity and location of the crack, different treatment options are available to restore the tooth’s health and appearance.

In this blog post, we will discuss the five best treatment options for cracked teeth and how to prevent them in the future.

Let’s get started!

Minor cracks that haven’t reached the pulp (inner part of the tooth):

If the crack is small and superficial, it may not cause any symptoms or affect the tooth’s function.

However, it is still important to treat it to prevent it from getting worse or causing aesthetic issues.

Two of the most common treatment options for minor cracks are:

Bonding:
This is a simple and minimally invasive procedure that involves using a tooth-colored resin to fill in the crack for a seamless look.

The resin is applied to the tooth, shaped, and hardened with a special light.

Bonding can also improve the tooth’s strength and durability.

Cosmetic contouring:

This is another easy and painless procedure that involves smoothing out any rough edges on the crack for comfort and aesthetics.

The dentist uses a fine drill or a laser to gently reshape the tooth and polish it.

Cosmetic contouring can also correct minor irregularities or flaws in the tooth’s shape or size.

Moderate cracks extending deeper into the tooth:

If the crack is larger and extends deeper into the tooth, it may cause more noticeable symptoms, such as pain, sensitivity, or discoloration.

It may also affect the tooth’s structure and integrity, making it more prone to further damage or infection.

One of the most effective treatment options for moderate cracks is:

Crown:

This is a custom-made cap that covers the entire tooth to protect it, strengthen it, and restore its function.

This is often the go-to option for larger cracks that compromise the tooth’s enamel or dentin.

The crown can be made of various materials, such as porcelain, metal, or composite, depending on the tooth’s location and the patient’s preference.

The crown is cemented to the tooth after removing some of the tooth’s surface to make room for it.

Severe cracks affecting the pulp or extending below the gum line:

If the crack is severe and affects the pulp (the inner part of the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels) or extends below the gum line, it may cause intense pain, swelling, infection, or abscess.

It may also endanger the tooth’s survival and require more complex treatment.

Two of the possible treatment options for severe cracks are:

Root canal:

Root canal involves removing the infected or inflamed pulp tissue inside the tooth to prevent further damage and pain.

The dentist drills a small hole in the tooth, cleans out the pulp chamber and the root canals, and fills them with a rubber-like material.

A crown is usually placed afterward for protection and reinforcement.

Extraction:

In rare cases where the crack is irreparable or severely compromises the tooth’s structure, extraction might be necessary.

This means removing the entire tooth from the socket and replacing it with an artificial tooth, such as a bridge, implant, or denture.

Extraction is usually the last resort when other treatment options fail or are not feasible.

Tips to prevent cracked tooth:

Cracked teeth can be prevented or minimized by following some simple tips, such as:

• Avoid biting or chewing on hard objects, such as ice, nuts, pens, or bones.
• Wear a mouthguard when playing sports or engaging in activities that may cause trauma to the teeth.
• Wear a night guard if you grind or clench your teeth at night, as this can cause excessive pressure and wear on the teeth.
• Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings.
• Treat any dental problems, such as cavities, gum disease, or misaligned teeth, as soon as possible, as they can weaken the teeth and make them more susceptible to cracking.

Remember:

Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for saving a cracked tooth. The longer you wait, the more likely it is that the crack will worsen and require more extensive treatment.

Always consult your dentist in London as soon as possible if you suspect a cracked tooth. They will diagnose the crack’s severity and recommend the best course of treatment based on your individual case.

I hope this blog post helps you understand the different treatment options for cracked teeth and how to prevent them. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below.

Thank you for reading!
 

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