How Dr. Nieves and our staff treat cracked teeth
Cracked teeth are a common dental issue that can significantly impact your oral health if left untreated. While a small crack may seem like a minor inconvenience, it can lead to more severe problems such as infection, tooth loss and even issues that affect your overall health. At Granbury Endodontics, we prioritize the well-being of our patients by addressing cracked teeth promptly and effectively. In this post, we'll walk you through how Dr. Nieves and our experienced staff diagnose and treat cracked teeth to restore both function and aesthetics.
Understanding cracked teeth: types and causes
Cracked teeth usually appear in one of several forms, each requiring a different approach for effective treatment. Here are the main types:
Craze lines: These are tiny cracks that appear on the outer enamel. They are usually superficial and don't cause pain.
Fractured cusp: This type occurs around a dental filling and typically doesn't affect the pulp of the tooth.
Cracked tooth: This crack extends from the chewing surface of the tooth down toward the root. Early identification and treatment are crucial to prevent further damage.
Split tooth: This is when a tooth cracks into two distinct segments. It often results in the loss of the tooth unless caught early.
Vertical root fracture: These cracks start in the root and extend toward the chewing surface. They can be challenging to diagnose but usually require extraction due to the extent of the damage.
Understanding what causes these cracks can help you avoid them. Common causes include:
Biting on hard foods: Like ice or hard candies
Trauma: Physical injury to the mouth
Grinding: Chronic teeth grinding
Large fillings: That weaken the tooth structure
Age: Natural wear and tear over time
How we diagnose cracked teeth at Granbury Endodontics
Accurately diagnosing a cracked tooth is the first step toward effective treatment. At Granbury Endodontics, Dr. Nieves and our team use a comprehensive approach that includes:
Visual examination: We look for visible signs of cracks using magnification.
Dental history: We review your dental history to identify any past issues that might contribute to cracking.
Probing: Gentle probing of the gum line to detect tenderness or irregularities.
X-rays: While not all cracks are visible on X-rays, they can help identify issues such as bone loss.
Bite tests: We use bite tests to determine which tooth is affected and how the crack responds to pressure.
How we treat cracked teeth at Granbury Endodontics
Once a cracked tooth is diagnosed, Dr. Nieves and our staff will discuss the most appropriate treatment options with you. The treatment plan will depend on the type and severity of the crack:
Fillings
For minor cracks, a filling may be sufficient. This involves cleaning out the affected area and filling it with material to restore the tooth's function and appearance.
Crowns
A crown is often recommended for more significant cracks. This involves reshaping the tooth and placing a custom-made crown over it to provide strength and protection.
Root canal
If the crack has extended into the pulp of the tooth, root canal therapy may be necessary. This procedure involves removing the damaged pulp, disinfecting the area, and filling it with a special material before sealing the tooth with a crown.
Extraction
In severe cases where the tooth cannot be saved, extraction may be the only option. This is only recommended in the most extreme of cases. If necessary, Dr. Nieves will discuss replacement options, such as dental implants or bridges, to restore your smile.
How to reduce the chance of getting a cracked tooth
Preventing cracked teeth is always better than treating them. Here are some practical tips to help you protect your teeth:
Avoid hard foods: Steer clear of foods that can crack your teeth, like hard candies and ice.
Wear a mouthguard: Especially if you grind your teeth at night or engage in contact sports.
Regular check-ups: Routine dental visits allow your dentist to catch and address small issues before they become bigger problems.
Good oral hygiene: Strong, healthy teeth are less likely to crack. Brush and floss regularly to maintain your oral health.
Diagnosing and treating a cracked tooth quickly is key
Cracked teeth are more than a minor annoyance—they can lead to significant oral health issues if not treated promptly. Dr. Nieves and our team at Granbury Endodontics are committed to providing comprehensive, expert care to ensure your teeth remain healthy and functional. Don’t wait until a small crack becomes a big problem: contact our office today to see how we can help with your cracked tooth.