How should a cracked or broken tooth be cared for?

Overview

A cracked tooth can happen as a result of grinding your teeth at night, chewing on hard foods, or even as a result of ageing. It is a widespread disorder and the main reason for tooth loss in developed countries.

reasons for fractured teeth

Teeth crack for a number of reasons, such as:

·         stress caused by tooth grinding

·         big fillings that compromise the strength of the teeth

·         consuming hard items like ice, nuts, or hard confectionery by chewing or biting

·         blows to the mouth that could result from a fistfight, vehicle accident, sports injury, or other trauma

·         A hot meal followed by an attempt to cool your mouth with ice water are examples of sudden temperature changes in the mouth.

·         age, with persons over 50 having the most tooth cracks

types of teeth cracks

Cracks may show up as:

·         crazed queues.

These are extremely tiny cracks in the tough outer layer of teeth's enamel. They are painless and don't need any care.

·         a broken cusp.

This type of crack typically develops near a dental filling. The pulp of the tooth, which contains the nerves, connective tissue, and blood vessels, is typically unaffected by it, so it normally doesn't produce much pain.

·         indentations in the gum line caused by cracks.

In most cases, a tooth that has a vertical fracture running through it but hasn't yet extended to the gum line can be saved. The tooth might need to

be pulled if the crack goes all the way to the gum line. The greatest chance of saving the tooth is with prompt treatment.

·         broken tooth.

This tooth has a crack that extends from the top of the tooth to the gum line. Actually, it can be divided into two halves. Although it's unlikely that the entire tooth may be saved due to the size of the crack, your dentist might be able to save some of it. 

·         root fracture that is vertical.

This kind of fracture rises upward from below the gum line. If the tooth doesn't become infected, it frequently doesn't cause many symptoms. It's likely that the tooth will need to be removed.

Signs of a broken tooth

·         Not all cracked teeth cause symptoms. But when it happens, typical examples consist of:

·         discomfort when chewing or biting, particularly when releasing the bite

·         Intolerance to sweetness, cold, or both

·         discomfort that fluctuates but is rarely constant

·         gum around the impacted tooth swelling

How to identify a cracked tooth

·         Not everyone has the classic symptoms of a broken tooth, and X-rays don't always show one. Your dentist will likely carry out the following procedures to assist diagnose a broken tooth: 

·         Inquire about your dental history, including whether you grind your teeth or chew on a lot of hard foods. 

·         Visually inspect the situation. To see small cracks, your doctor might need to use a magnifying glass. 

·       Look for a crack. To see if it "catches" on an edge, your dentist may run a dental explorer over and around the tooth.

·         Use a dental colour to draw attention to the crack. 

·         Examine your gums for any inflammation. This method is particularly useful for locating vertical fissures that might irritate gums. 

·         Take a dental X-ray. Even while this won't always show the crack, it can highlight poor pulp health, which may show a crack is present.

·         Have you recently taken a bite? When you release your bite, you might experience pain if you have a cracked tooth.

Getting a cracked tooth fixed

Treatment options vary according to the extent of the crack, its location, your symptoms, and whether it crosses the gum line. Your dentist might suggest one of the following options depending on those elements:

·      Bonding

In this operation, your doctor fills the crack with plastic resin to restore both its appearance and functionality.

·      Crown

A prosthetic item called a dental crown is often constructed of porcelain or ceramic. It covers or fits over the chipped teeth.

Your dentist must first remove a small amount of enamel from your tooth to make room for the crown in your mouth before fitting a crown. The crown is then created by taking an impression of the tooth, selecting a shade that complements your teeth, and sending the impression to a dental lab.

This procedure could take a few weeks. Your dentist will fit and cement the crown over your cracked tooth when it arrives.

Some dentists may now mill a porcelain crown in-office and implant it the same day thanks to technological advancements.

A crown can last a lifetime with the right maintenance.

·      a root canal

Your dentist or a specialist like an oral surgeon or endodontist may advise a root canal when a crack is so severe that it extends into the pulp in order to remove damaged pulp and repair some of the tooth's integrity. By doing this operation, the tooth can avoid contracting an infection or deteriorating further.

·         Extraction

The only option you may have is to extract the tooth if the tooth's structure, as well as the nerves and roots that are located beneath it, are severely damaged. 

·         No therapy

The enamel of many people's teeth has minute, hairline fissures in them. Your doctor could suggest leaving these cracks alone if they don't alter look or cause any pain.

Problems caused by a cracked tooth

The potential infection that might affect the bone and gums is perhaps the most serious side effect of a shattered tooth. The following are some signs of a dental infection, also called a tooth abscess:

·         fever

·         difficulty chewing

·         enlarged gums

·         sensitivity to both cold and heat

·         neck glands that are sensitive

·         poor breath

After attempting to drain the pus from the infection, your dentist may subsequently recommend an antibiotic to eradicate the bacteria.

Prevention and care for oneself

While a broken tooth cannot be treated at home, it can be avoided.

Keep in mind that healthy teeth are less likely to crack, and maintain appropriate oral hygiene. For preventive care, brush your teeth twice a day, floss every day, and see your dentist every six months.

Never chew on foods that are hard.

If you engage in contact sports, you should always wear a mouth guard, and if you grind your teeth at night, you should do the same.

If you believe you have a cracked tooth, wipe your mouth with warm water and apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek to reduce swelling. Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB), an anti-inflammatory pain reliever, can lessen inflammation and pain. Additionally, schedule a visit with your dentist very away. Delaying therapy increases the risk to your mouth.

Outlook

Many people frequently encounter a fractured tooth. There are several techniques that can be used to preserve your teeth and appearance.

Although a fracture can be fixed, unlike a broken bone, a cracked tooth will never fully heal. The best opportunity to save your tooth and avoid infection and further harm is, however, with quick treatment. And even though your mouth could hurt after the procedure, the discomfort should go away in a few days.

Your smile will be well protected if you practise good dental hygiene, stay away from hard foods, and wear a mouth guard if you grind your teeth or engage in contact sports.

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