Cracked Tooth Repair
Cracked Tooth Repair at Lawley Endodontics focuses on restoring the health and integrity of teeth damaged by dental decay, injury, or fractures. Cracks in teeth can manifest in various forms, including craze lines, fractured cusps, cracked teeth, split teeth, and vertical root fractures.
Learn more below:
- Craze Lines: These are small, superficial cracks that only affect the outer enamel. While generally harmless, they can sometimes cause tooth sensitivity or cosmetic concerns.
- Fractured Cusp: This occurs when a piece of the tooth's chewing surface breaks off, often due to a weakened tooth structure or extensive dental decay.
- Cracked Tooth: A crack that extends from the chewing surface of the tooth toward the root. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent the crack from worsening.
- Split Tooth: A more severe form of a cracked tooth, where the tooth is split into distinct segments. This often requires more extensive treatment or extraction.
- Vertical Root Fracture: These cracks begin at the root and extend toward the chewing surface. They can cause discomfort and infection, often requiring surgical intervention.
How to Fix a Cracked or Broken Tooth
Treatment for cracked or broken teeth varies based on the severity and location of the crack. Common treatments include:
- Dental Bonding: Applying a tooth-colored resin to repair small cracks or chips.
- Dental Crown: Covering the damaged tooth with a crown to protect and restore its function.
- Root Canal Therapy: Treating cracks that extend into the pulp of the tooth to prevent infection and save the tooth.
- Apicoectomy: Surgical removal of the tip of the root in cases of persistent infection or vertical root fractures.
Tooth Sensitivity and Craze Lines
Craze lines can cause tooth sensitivity, particularly to hot or cold temperatures. While often harmless, these lines can be addressed for cosmetic reasons or to alleviate discomfort. Treatments may include polishing the surface of the teeth or applying bonding material to smooth out the lines.
Do you need treatment? Contact us today.
