Cracked teeth are a result of the outer layers of the teeth (dentin and enamel) being damaged. These can range from affecting only the enamel, the enamel and the dentin, or all the way to affecting the enamel, the dentin, and the pulp. Cracked teeth are also extremely painful, especially while chewing and when consuming hot and cold substances. However, treatment is possible – our doctors and Our doctors can come up with a treatment plan after determining the type of cracked teeth.
Craze Lines
Craze lines are shallow, superficial cracks on the surface of the enamel. They are common in adults and don't cause pain or pose any danger (unless they worsen).
Cracked Tooth
In this case, the crack starts from the chewing surface and vertically extends to the root. If the crack has not reached the gum line, the tooth is usually able to be saved. If there has been damage to the pulp, a root canal may be required. However, if the crack has extended into the gum line, the tooth needs to be extracted. This is why early treatment is key when it comes to saving a cracked tooth.
Fractured Cusp
If a cusp becomes weak, it may become fractured. This is usually seen in molars and doesn't usually affect the pulp. Unless the pulp is harmed, there is no need for a root canal – simply removing the cracked cusp and restoring the tooth (with a filling or crown) does the trick.
Vertical Root Fracture
These start at the root and progress to the chewing surface. Because this type of crack doesn't result in many symptoms, it can go unnoticed until there is an infection. At this point, either the tooth can be partially saved, or it has to be fully extracted.
Split Tooth
If a cracked tooth is left untreated, it can worsen and result in a split tooth. In this case, the crack travels from the chewing surface all the way to the root and can split the tooth into two. The tooth cannot be saved at this stage. However, depending on the level of damage, it may be partially saved. The rest of the tooth, however, will require a root canal.
If you think that you may have a cracked tooth, don't hesitate to call Brush & Floss Dental Center at (203) 683-5253 and schedule an appointment.
Cracked teeth are a result of the outer layers of the teeth (dentin and enamel) being damaged. These can range from affecting only the enamel, the enamel and the dentin, or all the way to affecting the enamel, the dentin, and the pulp. Cracked teeth are also extremely painful, especially while chewing and when consuming hot and cold substances. However, treatment is possible – our doctors and Our doctors can come up with a treatment plan after determining the type of cracked teeth.