Cracked teeth have treatments. Sometimes it is a very simple procedure that happens in one visit. So why do so many people avoid it for so long? Many people assume a cracked tooth means extensive cajoling and browbeating from their dentist–and it simply isnt true. Your dental care office represents a whole crew of people who have made it their career to car for patients and protect their health.
Dangers of Cracked Teeth
When cracked teeth are not repaired they cause big problems for patients. Firstly they make the patient less likely to smile and more self conscious, which has real-world consequences on the self esteem and happiness of the patient. When the Teeth are not repaired after cracks, there are more nooks and crevices for food to become lodged, which can lead to further dental decay and infection. Meanwhile the crack itself could make the tooth or multiple teeth unstructured, and could lead to tooth loss. And if the teeth are lost there is a whole domino effect which leads to greater tooth loss. In short, if you have cracked, chipped, fractured, or broken tooth– get in to see your dentist right away.
What causes Cracked or Broken Teeth?
Cracked or broken teeth can be caused by any number of things, but we typically categorize it three ways:
1. Trauma- If you have suffered a slip, fall, or something has struck you in the face–you could easily break a tooth as a result. A break of this nature is usually sudden and startling. Make sure to spit any piece of the tooth or teeth out of your mouth. You do not want to swallow any sharp pieces. You also want to call a dentist right away, and consider the emergency number if you are in pain.
2. Infection- Infection runs deep into the gums and the roots of the teeth, so these breaks are usually true fractures: meaning the split the tooth down to its’ base. This also means the tooth is usually structurally compromised at this point. You will want to get it checked out right away, and take the first steps down the long road of restorative hygiene; in order to combat the original infection.
3. Disease- In the genetic luck of the draw, sometimes you come up with the high card. If you have a family history of genetic disposition to weakened bones, cracked teeth, dental infections, or vitamin d/calcium deficiencies; you might have a disease which leads to greater likelihood of cracked teeth.
See your Dentist today to discuss Cracked Tooth Treatments like:
1. Composite Bonding
2. Tooth Extraction
3. Tooth Replacement
4. Root Canal Therapy
5. Lanap
Your Doctor is the professional, and they may suggest any of the above as a potential replacement option for Cracked Tooth Treatments. Take their advice and ask about different options for your unique condition. Some may opt to save the tooth structure, and others will need to look into replacement options. Whatever you and your dentist decide is what is best for your condition.