Understanding What Cracked Teeth Syndrome Is
Cracked tooth syndrome is a dental condition that occurs when there is a crack or split in the teeth, which can cause pain or discomfort pain when chewing. This condition is commonly observed in posterior teeth, particularly molars, which are responsible for grinding food.Why are Molars Susceptible to Cracks?
While any tooth can crack, it is predominantly the two front incisors on your upper jaw and the back teeth which are most prone to tooth fractures.
Molars, the posterior teeth located towards the end of your jaw, are highly susceptible to cracks due to their function in chewing and grinding food. They are the largest and strongest teeth in human dentition and endure the greatest amount of force during the chewing process, making them more vulnerable to fractures.
Additionally, molars often have deep grooves, fissures, and pits on their chewing surfaces that can serve as potential weak spots where cracks can form. These crevices can accumulate food particles and plaque, making them harder to clean and more prone to decay.
Moreover, a molar is more likely to be affected by teeth grinding, which causes excessive wear and tear and eventual weakening of this vital posterior tooth.
In short, the location and function of the molars, combined with their unique anatomical features and susceptibility to dental problems like bruxism and decay, make them more likely to develop cracks compared to other teeth in the mouth.
Common Causes of Cracked Tooth Syndrome
Cracked tooth syndrome, also known as a fractured tooth, occurs when a tooth has a crack or fracture that extends from the chewing surface towards the root. There are numerous causes of a split tooth, including:Trauma
Sudden impact or trauma to a tooth can cause a crack or fracture. This may result from a car accident, sports injury or fall.Bruxism
Excessive grinding or teeth clenching can exert pressure on them and cause small cracks to develop.Large fillings
The larger the filling, the weaker the remaining tooth structure becomes. Over time, this could cause the tooth to crack.Age
As we age, our dentition becomes weaker and more susceptible to cracking.Chewing hard foods
Biting down on hard substances such as hard candy, ice, or nuts can cause a tooth to crack.Teeth with root canals
After undergoing root canal treatment, teeth tend to become weaker and more susceptible to cracking.Misaligned bite
An uneven bite can put stress on certain teeth, making them more susceptible to cracking. Early identification of the cause of cracked tooth syndrome is important, as is seeking treatment to prevent further damage to the damaged tooth and its adjacent teeth.Diagnosis of cracked tooth syndrome
When it comes to diagnosing a cracked tooth, we could use various methods to determine the extent of the damage and create an effective treatment plan for you. However, the very first step is to take your dental history and ask about your general health. After a detailed conversation, we could opt for one or even a combination of these diagnostic methods:Visual Inspection
Using a dental mirror and a special light, our skilled dentist can look for the affected teeth and identify signs of damage, such as cracks or chips. If the problem is not visible to the naked eye, we will opt for other methods to identify the problem.Bite Test
We may perform a bite test to check for tenderness or pain when pressure is applied to the affected tooth. This can help to identify the location and severity of the crack.
X-rays
X-rays can provide a comprehensive view of the tooth, allowing our experienced professionals to see any cracks or fractures that may not be visible to the naked eye.
This can also help to rule out any other potential causes of tooth pain.
X-raysDye Staining
Sometimes, a dye may be used to highlight any cracks in the tooth. This enables us to easily see the extent of damage and to plan appropriate treatment.Transillumination
This technique involves shining a bright light through the tooth to check for cracks or a proper tooth fracture. It can be particularly useful for detecting small or hard-to-see cracks.Cone Beam CT Scan
For complex cases, a cone beam CT scan may be used. This advanced imaging technology creates a 3D image of the tooth, allowing us to see the extent of the damage and plan a precise treatment.Treating Cracked Tooth Syndrome
If it has been determined you do have a cracked tooth, there are several treatments our highly-qualified dental professionals may recommend based on your specific case. These include:Bonding
This involves applying a resin material to the damaged tooth to seal the crack and protect it from infections and further damage. Bonding is a fast and effective procedure that is usually completed in one visit.Crown
A tooth crown is a protective cap that strengthens and shields a damaged tooth from additional harm. Crowns are usually recommended for severe cracks or if a portion of the tooth has chipped off.Root Canal
A crack extending into your tooth can damage the dental pulp, which is soft tissue within the tooth. In such scenarios, a root canal treatment may be required to remove the damaged pulp and prevent the crack from causing any further damage.Extraction
In cases where the crack is too severe, and the tooth cannot be salvaged with other methods, an extraction may be necessary to prevent the spread of infection and minimise any risk of damage to other teeth and the soft tissue along the gum line.Why is Urgent Dental Care Important For Cracked Teeth?
The urgency of treatment for cracked tooth syndrome stems from the fact that it can worsen over time, leading to more significant damage to the tooth’s structure and potential infection.
Moreover, without intervention, the pain and discomfort can become debilitating, affecting the ability to eat, sleep, and carry out everyday activities.
It’s important to note that a cracked tooth does not always cause immediate pain, but it can lead to sensitivity, discomfort, and further oral health complications if left untreated.
It’s crucial to seek dental attention if you suspect you have a cracked tooth, as a prompt diagnosis and treatment plan can prevent the issue from worsening and potentially leading to tooth loss.
Get Prompt, Long-Lasting Treatment for Cracked Tooth Syndrome at St Leonards Green Dental
Cracked Tooth Syndrome is a common dental problem that can easily go unnoticed without proper diagnosis.
At St Leonards Green Dental, we understand the severity and pain associated with this condition, which is why we offer state-of-the-art diagnosis and treatment options to restore your oral health and prevent further damage.
Our highly-trained team stays current with the latest techniques and technology, ensuring you receive the most effective and gentle care possible.
Whether you have craze lines or a vertical root fracture, don’t let a cracked tooth go untreated and cause additional discomfort. Contact us on (02) 9158 6211 to book an appointment for prompt and effective cracked tooth treatments. Let us help you smile confidently again!
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
Resources
Cracked Teeth: A Review of the Literature – PMC https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3870147/
Cracked tooth diagnosis and treatment: An alternative paradigm – PMC https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4439863/
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