Products Info|Dentistry – Teeth Fracture

DENTAL – TOOTH FRACTURES

In dentistry, dental health is a primary concern. Fractured or cracked teeth are common, can occur during trauma or as a result of poor dental hygiene, and can occur at any age, but are usually more common in adults 25 years of age or older. When this occurs, the symptoms can be painful but are easily treated. We will look at the types of cracks or fractures and the treatments available.

The first and most common type of tooth fracture is called a supragingival fracture and usually occurs when you bite down hard on food or objects. Usually this type of fracture does not involve a nerve root, but occurs above the gums. Some people need to wait long enough for the fractured part to fall out so that they can get relief from the pain. If the broken portion of the tooth does not fall out, then you may experience exposed dentin and you will need to visit your dentist to repair the tooth. Your dentist will determine if the fracture is too large to stay in place and a crown may have to be placed to prevent further wear on the tooth.

The second type of fracture is one that extends beyond the gum line, known as a sloping subgingival tooth fracture. The problem with this is that the remaining tooth remains attached to the gums

resulting in immense pain. When the remainder of the tooth is removed from the gums, the tooth will resemble a supragingival fracture. While this does not usually affect the nerves, the structure of the tooth will be compromised and a root canal may recommend that the nucleus of the tooth be cleaned before any crowns and posts are placed. Depending on the depth of the gingival fracture, the dentist will know if the tooth can be saved.

Oblique root fractures do not involve the crown at all. This type of fracture is almost always below the gums and usually below the bone. If a root fracture is located in the crown of the tooth, it usually proves to be an irreparable situation. Although you may be able to undergo endodontic surgery such as a root canal, the tooth may fall out at a later date due to an abscess in the bone surrounding the fracture.

Vertical apical fractures are the most difficult type of fracture to deal with, and they occur at the tip of the root. Even if a root canal has been performed on the tooth in the past, the patient can experience severe pain as the tooth fragments put pressure on the bone and surrounding area. The only way to alleviate this pain is to have a root canal.

Tooth fractures are very common and painful and should always be examined and diagnosed by a dentist to see if there are any other underlying problems. In graded care, they will be able to determine the type of fracture and the best course of action for pain relief and prevention. They have the necessary endodontic tools and experience to provide comfort.