CRACKED TEETH EXTRACTIONS

Cracked Teeth & Extractions

Cracked teeth can be anywhere from a minor annoyance to an extremely serious condition. While some cracks require small repairs, others may need more advanced treatment-which may even include extraction.
Below is more about cracked teeth including common causes, treatment options, prevention, and situations in which extraction is necessary.

What Causes Cracked Teeth?

Tooth fractures (cracked teeth) have a variety of different potential causes. These include:

• Biting hard foods
• Bruxism (teeth grinding and clenching)
• Trauma
• Chewing on hard items
• Age

Cracked Tooth Treatment Options

Not all fractures are the same. Some tooth fractures are quite minor and generally cosmetic, while others are very serious and even dangerous. The treatment option will depend on the severity of the damage and the recommendation of your dentist.

Some common treatment options for cracked teeth include:

• Bonding: Dental bonding is best for minor cracks and chips, and generally serves as a cosmetic repair.
• Veneers: Dental veneers are a little more complex and involve the reshaping of a tooth to place a dental prosthetic. These are helpful for teeth that are a little more severely cracked.
• Dental crowns: Dental crowns replace the entire crown of a patient’s tooth. Because of this, they are generally intended for the repair of more significant cracks and damage to a tooth.

Cracked Teeth & Extractions

It’s very important to address a cracked tooth as soon as possible to minimize the damage and increase the likelihood of a simple repair. If the damage gets bad enough and/or leads to an infection, though, extraction may be required to ensure the health of the patient. Extractions are a last resort, though, and your dentist won’t recommend one unless it’s imperative.

If your tooth is extracted, you may be provided with the option of a dental implant.

Is My Tooth Cracked?

Are you wondering if you have a cracked tooth? Here are some symptoms:

• Visible damage
• Ongoing pain in the tooth
• Sensitivity
• Pain when biting and chewing
• Swelling

While these are all symptoms of a cracked tooth, you don’t necessarily have a cracked tooth just because you are experiencing these symptoms (outside of visible damage). You’ll need to schedule an appointment with a dentist for them to examine your tooth and let you know exactly what the root cause is. From there, a treatment plan can be put in place.

Can I Prevent a Cracked Tooth?

Generally, yes. While some cracks can’t be avoided (for instance, if you fall down and hit your tooth), other fractures can be avoided pretty easily. If you play sports, make sure you wear a mouthguard. Also, wear a mouthguard at night if you suffer from bruxism (teeth grinding and clenching). If you chew on hard objects (hard candy, ice, pen caps, etc.) you should stop doing so immediately. Great oral healthcare (including visiting the dentist regularly) can help you to avoid fractures, as well.

Reach Out Today

If you believe you have a cracked tooth, reach out today to schedule an appointment. Your dentist will take a look at your tooth and determine if it is cracked and, if so, the extent of the damage. From there, they will determine the best treatment option to meet your needs.

Cracked Tooth Treatments