Cracked Tooth: 5 Effective Treatments for a Broken Tooth
A cracked tooth can occur for various reasons, from chewing on hard foods to grinding your teeth at night. It may also develop naturally as you age. This common dental issue is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in industrialized nations.
Causes of a Cracked Tooth
Teeth can crack for a number of reasons, including:
Teeth grinding: Excessive pressure from grinding, especially at night, can weaken teeth.
Large fillings: Over time, large fillings may compromise the tooth’s integrity.
Chewing hard foods: Biting down on hard substances like ice, nuts, or candy can lead to cracks.
Injuries or trauma: Accidents, sports injuries, or falls can cause damage to teeth.
Abrupt temperature changes: Going from hot to cold foods quickly can stress your teeth.
Aging: Most tooth cracks occur in individuals over the age of 50.
If you suspect you have a cracked or broken tooth, it’s crucial to consult our dentist in Salem, MA as soon as possible. Below are some treatments we may recommend, depending on your situation.
5 Treatment Options for a Broken Tooth
Ceramic Dental Filling
To restore strength to a cracked tooth, a ceramic filling may be applied. This procedure can restore up to 98% of the tooth’s original strength. With CEREC technology, many patients can have their tooth repaired in just one visit. In more complex cases, ceramic inlays or crowns may be crafted in a laboratory using durable materials such as gold or zirconium. A temporary restoration may be applied at the first appointment, with the final restoration placed two to three weeks later.
Dental Bonding
If the crack is minor and affects only a small part of the tooth, dental bonding may be an effective option. The dentist might place a sedative bandage over the exposed part of the pulp to promote healing. A temporary filling may also be applied to rebuild and protect the tooth while it heals.
Root Canal
If the crack extends deep into the tooth and affects the pulp, a root canal may be necessary. This treatment involves removing the damaged pulp while preserving the remaining structure of the tooth. Once the root canal is completed, the tooth can be restored with a filling or crown, depending on its condition.
Dental Crowns
For severely cracked teeth, particularly after a root canal, a crown may be required to provide extra protection and restore the tooth’s functionality. Crowns can be made in a single visit with CEREC technology, or fabricated in a laboratory from materials like gold or zircon for added strength.
Dental Implants
In cases where a tooth is fractured below the gum or bone level, more advanced treatment may be needed. If the crack extends too deep, the tooth may need to be extracted and replaced with a dental implant. Procedures like laser gingivectomy can sometimes save the tooth by adjusting the gum line, but if extraction is necessary, an implant offers a long-term solution.
Saving a Cracked Tooth
While a cracked tooth can often be treated, it will never fully heal like a broken bone. However, prompt and proper care can help preserve the tooth, prevent further damage, and reduce the risk of infection. After treatment, any soreness should subside in a few days.
Practicing good oral hygiene, avoiding hard foods, and using a mouthguard if you grind your teeth or play contact sports are excellent ways to protect your teeth and prevent future cracks.
If you have a cracked or broken tooth, don’t wait. Schedule an appointment with Aleris Salem Dental by calling 855-745-0055 and discover how we can help restore your smile.
Comments