If you accidentally crack your tooth, the only thought that comes to mind is whether it needs to be pulled or if it can still be saved. The good news is that a cracked tooth does not always need to be removed. Many cracked teeth can be treated and saved.
However, it all depends on the case. If the crack is not too deep and is treated early, seeing a dentist quickly increases your chances of restoring your natural tooth. Read this blog to find out the different types of tooth cracks and the symptoms.
Types of Tooth Cracks
Not all tooth cracks are the same. Here is a list of some types:
Craze lines
These are tiny surface cracks in the enamel. They are very common and usually painless. Treatment is often not needed.
Chipped or fractured tips
These happen when a small piece of the tooth breaks off. Bonding or a crown usually fixes the problem.
Cracked tooth
This type of crack runs deeper toward the root. The tooth can often be saved with a crown or root canal if treated early.
Split tooth
The tooth is split into separate pieces. In most cases, extraction is needed.
Vertical root fracture
This crack starts below the gum line and moves upward. These teeth usually cannot be saved and must be removed.
Common Causes of Cracked Teeth
Teeth can crack for many reasons, such as:
- Biting hard foods like ice or nuts
- Teeth grinding or clenching
- Large fillings that weaken the tooth
- Tooth decay
- Sports injuries or falls
- Using teeth to open bottles or packages
Symptoms to Watch Out for Cracked Teeth
A cracked tooth can exhibit multiple symptoms. While hairline cracks may not hurt too much at first, deeper cracks can cause:
- Sharp pain when biting or chewing
- Sensitivity to hot or cold foods
- Pain that comes and goes
- Swollen or sore gums near the tooth
- A visible line on the tooth
Treatment Options for Cracked Teeth
Multiple treatments address a cracked tooth, such as:
- Bonding or fillings are quick and effective procedures that fix small cracks.
- If the nerve or pulp is infected due to a deeper crack, a root canal can fix the issue.
- If the tooth is beyond repair, reached beyond the gum line, or is split in pieces, a tooth extraction might be needed.
- Some cracked teeth might need extra support and strength to restore function; a dental crown can be added for this purpose.
What if the Teeth Needs to Be Pulled?
In some cases, when the tooth is beyond repair, reaches beyond the gum line, is split into pieces, or does not have enough bone to be restored, your dentist will recommend a tooth extraction.
But that is not the end of the world. There are multiple options to restore a missing tooth, such as an implant. A dental implant provides excellent strength, stability, and function similar to a natural tooth.
How to Prevent Cracked Teeth
Here is how you can prevent cracked teeth:
- Do not chew hard foods
- Wear a mouthguard during sports
- Use a night guard if you grind your teeth
- Maintain good oral hygiene
- Visit your dentist regularly
Overall Insight
A cracked tooth does not always mean it has to be pulled. Every cracked tooth is different, and treatment depends on the location and depth of the crack. Minor cracks can be fixed with bonding and veneers.
However, if the crack has caused infection in the pulp, a root canal might be needed. If the tooth is beyond repair, your dentist might call for an extraction.
If your tooth is cracked, call our expert dental team at Signature Smiles Dentistry for personalized treatment today!
