307-789-5608 Cracked teeth are a common dental issue that can lead to significant discomfort, especially when left untreated. A crack in a tooth can occur due to several factors, including injury, grinding your teeth or even biting down on something hard. Regardless of how it happens, getting treatment as soon as possible is essential to prevent further complications and relieve pain. Here is what you need to know about cracked tooth treatment and how our endodontic team can help.
Understanding Cracked Tooth Syndrome
A cracked tooth may seem straightforward, but not all cracks are visible or easily detectable. Some cracks may not even cause symptoms initially, making it difficult to diagnose. However, as the crack progresses, you might experience symptoms such as sharp pain when chewing, sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures or discomfort that comes and goes. Cracked tooth syndrome can often mimic other dental problems, so an accurate diagnosis from an experienced endodontist is essential.
Cracks in teeth can vary in type and severity. There are five common types of cracks:
- Craze Lines: Small, superficial cracks that do not usually require treatment.
- Fractured Cusp: A crack that affects the pointed part of the tooth’s chewing surface.
- Cracks that extend to the gum line: If caught early, this type of crack can often be treated to save the tooth.
- Vertical Root Fracture: These cracks begin at the root and are often not noticed until they become infected.
- Split Tooth: A crack that splits the tooth into distinct parts and typically requires extraction.
Identifying the type of crack and its severity helps determine the most effective treatment approach.
How Our Endodontist Can Help
Endodontists are dental specialists with expertise in treating the inside of the tooth, including the pulp, nerves and surrounding tissues. We are especially skilled in diagnosing and managing cracked teeth because we have advanced training in complex tooth anatomy and state-of-the-art diagnostic tools. Here is how our endodontist can help restore your cracked tooth:
1. Diagnosis and Assessment
Using advanced imaging techniques like digital X-rays and, in some cases, 3D scans, our endodontist can thoroughly evaluate the extent and type of the crack. This assessment is crucial because treatment options vary significantly depending on the crack’s location and depth. A minor crack may only require a crown to protect the tooth, while deeper cracks could necessitate root canal treatment to prevent infection.
2. Root Canal Therapy
If the crack has extended into the pulp (the soft tissue inside the tooth), root canal therapy may be needed. During this procedure, our endodontist will carefully remove the damaged pulp tissue, clean and disinfect the inside of the tooth and seal it to prevent bacteria from entering. A crown is typically placed over the tooth after a root canal to provide added strength and protection.
3. Crown Placement
For some cracked teeth, a crown alone may be sufficient to prevent the crack from worsening. Crowns are custom-made caps that cover and protect the entire tooth, helping it withstand normal chewing forces. Our endodontist will work closely with your general dentist to ensure the crown fits comfortably and looks natural.
4. Tooth Extraction, if Necessary
In cases where the crack has split the tooth beyond repair, extraction may be the best option. Our skilled endodontist will guide you through the process and discuss options for replacing the extracted tooth, such as dental implants or bridges, to maintain your smile and dental function.
Why Seek Treatment Early?
Leaving a cracked tooth untreated can lead to serious complications, including infection, tooth loss and even damage to surrounding teeth and gum tissue. Seeking early treatment from our endodontic team can help preserve your natural tooth, reduce pain and protect your overall oral health.
If you suspect you have a cracked tooth or are experiencing any symptoms, please avoid waiting. Schedule an appointment with our endodontist to assess your options and take the first step toward restoring your smile. With the right care and attention, you can regain comfort and confidence in your dental health!