A cracked tooth can be difficult to diagnose, as it exhibits various symptoms that can be intermittent and hard to pinpoint. These may include sharp pain while chewing that may subside when pressure is released, or sensitivity to extreme temperatures. The inconsistent nature of the pain can make it challenging for your dentist to identify the affected tooth.
Here’s more information on cracked teeth in Singapore, including its symptoms, and tooth fracture repair.
A cracked tooth may be the common term used, but there are several types depending on where the break happens.
Cracked Tooth
A cracked tooth typically extends from the chewing surface vertically down towards the root but still above the gumline. Over time, the crack may spread deeper into the root. Early diagnosis is important to attempt to save the tooth.
If the crack has extended into the pulp, dental crack treatment may involve root canal treatment and a crown to protect the tooth and prevent the crack from spreading.
Note that if the crack extends below the gumline, tooth fracture repair is no longer possible and extraction becomes necessary.
Split Tooth
This is often the result of the progression of a cracked tooth. The fragments are distinct and can be separated and the tooth cannot be saved intact. The position and extent of the crack will determine if tooth fracture repair is possible. Often, the split tooth is deemed untreatable and extraction is recommended.
Vertical Root Fracture
This type of crack begins at the tip of the root towards the chewing surface. Because the root is covered by gums and bone, such cracks commonly go unnoticed until signs and symptoms develop.
Treatment may involve extraction of the tooth or endodontic surgery if the crack does not extend too far into the root.
Oral Health Recovery: What To Do After Dental Crack Treatment?
While your dentist will provide specific instructions after dental crack treatment, here are some general tips to aid in your recovery:
- Manage Pain: Over-the-counter pain relievers can help ease discomfort during the initial healing phase.
- Watch What You Eat: Stick to soft foods for the first few days to avoid putting pressure on the treated tooth. Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that could irritate the area.
- Keep It Clean: Brush twice a day and floss daily. However, be gentle around the treated tooth, taking care not to disrupt the area. Your dentist may recommend using a special rinse to promote healing and prevent infection.
- Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Hot or cold foods and beverages can cause sensitivity in the treated tooth. Stick to lukewarm options until the sensitivity subsides.
- Follow-Up with Your Dentist: Be sure to attend any follow-up appointments your dentist schedules to monitor your healing progress and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.
Cracked Tooth in Singapore: Prevention
Cracked teeth can be painful and tooth fracture repair can be costly. Here are a few simple steps you can take to protect your pearly whites:
- Don’t Use Your Teeth as Tools: Avoid using your teeth to open packages, crack nuts, or perform other tasks that could put unnecessary stress on them.
- Wear a Mouthguard: If you play sports or grind your teeth at night, a mouthguard can help cushion your teeth and prevent them from cracking.
- Limit Hard Foods: While occasional crunchy snacks are okay, try to limit your consumption of hard foods like ice, hard candy, and popcorn kernels.
- Practise Good Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss regularly to keep your teeth and gums healthy, reducing the risk of decay and weakening that can lead to cracks.
Key Takeaways
A cracked tooth can be difficult to diagnose due to its varying and intermittent symptoms, which may include sharp pain while chewing, temperature sensitivity, and difficulty locating the source of the discomfort.
Early diagnosis is crucial for dental crack treatment, as options depend on the severity and type of crack. Treatment may involve root canal treatment and crown placement, or extraction in severe cases where the crack extends below the gumline.
Following treatment, it is important to manage pain, watch your diet, maintain good oral hygiene, and attend follow-up appointments. Preventive measures, such as avoiding using teeth as tools, wearing a mouthguard, limiting hard foods, and practising good oral hygiene, can help reduce the risk of cracked teeth.
References:
Cracked Tooth, https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21628-fractured-tooth-cracked-tooth Accessed October 5, 2024
Cracked Tooth, https://www.singhealth.com.sg/patient-care/conditions-treatments/cracked-tooth Accessed October 5, 2024
Cracked Teeth, https://www.aae.org/patients/dental-symptoms/cracked-teeth/ Accessed October 5, 2024
