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Cracked Tooth

Cracked teeth, often caused by biting hard objects, trauma, or grinding, can result in sharp pain when chewing. If left untreated, the damage can affect the pulp, leading to infection in the surrounding bone and tissue.

Types of Cracks That Can Affect Teeth

The treatment for cracked teeth varies based on the severity and location of the crack. Minor cracks may be treated with root canal therapy to preserve the tooth, while severe cases may necessitate extraction. Here are common types of tooth cracks:

  • Crazes: Fine vertical lines on the enamel that are harmless. Treatment is typically cosmetic.
  • Oblique Supragingival Cracks: These cracks are above the gumline and usually cause minimal discomfort.
  • Oblique Subgingival Cracks: Extending below the gumline, these cracks often require periodontal surgery and root canal treatment.
  • Vertical Furcation Cracks: Located between the roots, these cracks affect the nerve and typically need root canal therapy and a crown.
  • Oblique Root Cracks: Found in the tooth’s root, these cracks usually cannot be repaired and often require extraction.
  • Vertical Apical Root Cracks: These occur at the root’s apex and may not require extraction, though pain often leads to that decision.

Common Symptoms of a Cracked Tooth

  • Sharp Pain While Chewing: Sudden, intense pain when biting or eating.
  • Temperature Sensitivity: Increased discomfort with hot or cold foods and drinks.
  • Intermittent Pain: Occasional pain that arises without a clear cause.
  • Difficulty Locating Pain: Hard-to-identify discomfort that makes pinpointing the affected tooth challenging.

Treatment for Cracked Teeth

The treatment for a cracked tooth varies based on its depth and location. Some cracks are only visible on X-rays, while others can be seen directly. If a crack reaches the root, root canal therapy is typically necessary. This procedure involves removing the pulp, nerves, and blood vessels, followed by sealing the canals with gutta-percha. A crown or filling is then placed to restore the tooth’s function and appearance.

In cases of severe damage where repair isn’t possible, extraction may be required. Patients can then explore restorative options like bridges, dental implants, or partial dentures to regain normal chewing, speaking, and biting functions.

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