What Does a Dentist Do for a Cracked Tooth? A Complete Guide to Treatment and Care

What Happens When You Crack Your Tooth?

One of the most common dental emergencies I see in my practice as a dentist is a cracked tooth. You might be surprised to know that it happens more often than you think. Cracking a tooth can happen due to many reasons such as biting down on something hard, an accident, or even just the natural wear and tear over time. Regardless of how it happens, when you crack a tooth, it can cause discomfort and even lead to more serious issues if not treated. Let me walk you through what a dentist like myself does to treat a cracked tooth and help relieve any pain you may be experiencing.

The Types of Cracked Teeth

As a dentist, when you walk into my office with a cracked tooth, one of the first things I do is assess the type of crack you’re dealing with. There are several different types of cracks, each requiring different treatments:

• Cracked Tooth: A vertical crack running from the top of the tooth towards the root. It usually requires a crown or root canal if the crack is deep enough.
• Split Tooth: This occurs when a crack gets so deep that the tooth splits into two pieces. Often, this requires extraction if the tooth cannot be saved.
• Fractured Cusp: This is the fracture of a part of the tooth, usually around a filling. It might not affect the nerve, and it can often be fixed with a dental crown.
• Chipped Tooth: A small section of the tooth’s surface is missing, usually caused by trauma. This is often the least painful and easiest to fix, typically with bonding or veneers.

What Does a Dentist Do for a Cracked Tooth?

When you visit my office with a cracked tooth, I will first examine your tooth and take an X-ray to understand the severity of the crack. This is crucial for determining the right treatment. Depending on the situation, here’s what I can do:

1. Dental Bonding

If the crack is minor, I may suggest a procedure called dental bonding. This is where I apply a resin material to fill in the crack and restore the shape of the tooth. It’s a quick and relatively painless procedure, and you’ll be able to use the tooth as usual once it’s done.

2. Dental Crowns

If the crack is more significant, I will likely recommend a dental crown. This is a cap that covers the entire tooth and restores both its function and appearance. The crown helps protect the tooth from further damage and ensures it continues to perform as it should.

3. Root Canal Treatment

In some cases, the crack may reach the pulp (the soft tissue inside the tooth), causing an infection. If that happens, I might need to perform a root canal. This procedure involves removing the infected pulp, cleaning the root canal, and then sealing it. Afterward, I will place a crown to protect the tooth. Though root canals have a reputation for being painful, I assure you that modern techniques make it quite a comfortable procedure.

4. Extraction

If the crack is severe enough and the tooth cannot be saved, extraction may be necessary. Though this is the last resort, sometimes it’s the best option for your overall health. If extraction is needed, we can discuss replacement options, such as dental implants or bridges, to restore your smile.

What to Expect During Recovery

Once the treatment for your cracked tooth is completed, you may experience some discomfort or sensitivity, especially if a root canal was performed. However, the pain should subside in a few days. I usually recommend taking over-the-counter pain relievers and avoiding hard or chewy foods for a while to allow the tooth to heal properly.

Preventing Cracked Teeth in the Future

As a dentist, one of the most common questions I get is how to prevent cracked teeth. While accidents can’t always be avoided, there are steps you can take to minimize the risk:

• Wear a Mouthguard: If you play contact sports or grind your teeth at night, a mouthguard can protect your teeth from trauma.
• Don’t Bite Hard Objects: Avoid chewing on ice, pens, or hard candy, as they can put unnecessary stress on your teeth.
• Regular Check-ups: Regular visits to the dentist can help detect early signs of wear and tear, allowing us to address small issues before they become bigger problems.

Real-Life Story: A Patient’s Experience with a Cracked Tooth

Let me share a real-life story from my practice. One of my patients, John, came in with a cracked molar. He had been eating a piece of hard candy when he heard a loud crack. When I examined him, the crack extended deep into the tooth, but fortunately, it hadn’t affected the root. I was able to restore his tooth with a dental crown. John was a bit nervous about the procedure, but afterward, he was thrilled with the results. He was able to eat and drink comfortably again and was relieved that we had saved his tooth.

Conclusion

Cracked teeth can be both painful and worrying, but with the help of your dentist, you can restore the tooth to full function and prevent further damage. It’s important to seek dental care as soon as you notice a crack to avoid complications and preserve your tooth for the long term. If you’re dealing with a cracked tooth, don’t hesitate to reach out to a dentist like myself for a proper assessment and treatment.