Can a Dentist Save a Cracked Tooth?

Wondering whether a cracked tooth can be saved by a dentist? Read on to find out. If a cracked tooth is damaged beyond what can be repaired, then a dentist may recommend having the tooth extracted and replaced with a fixed dental bridge, partial denture, or implant-supported dental crown.

How a dentist can save a cracked tooth

The methods used to treat a cracked tooth vary, depending on how severely the tooth is cracked, whether or not the root of the tooth is affected, and the tooth’s location. The following is a closer look at how a dentist can save a cracked tooth, what the treatment options are, and what can be done if the tooth cannot be saved.

When can a cracked tooth be saved?

A cracked tooth can typically be saved if the root of the tooth is not severely damaged. In fact, most instances of cracked teeth can be treated rather than having to be removed and replaced. However, the longer the patient waits for treatment, the less likely it is that the dentist can save it from needing an extraction or falling out.

When must a cracked tooth be extracted and replaced?

A cracked tooth cannot be saved if the root of the tooth is severely damaged beyond what root canal therapy or root-end surgery can address. In other instances, it may be more cost-effective and less invasive to simply remove the tooth and replace it. A dentist can explain the pros and cons of saving and replacing the tooth during the patient’s first visit.

The primary thing that a dentist must determine when treating a cracked tooth is whether or not saving the tooth or removing it and replacing it is the best option. If both are options, then they can explain them to the patient and help them decide which is the preferable solution based on their treatment goals and personal situation.

Cracked tooth treatment options

The most popular cracked tooth treatment options are a dental crown, dental bonding, dental veneers, and root canal therapy (followed by the placement of a crown). A dental crown, bonding, or veneer is recommended if the damage to the tooth is minor and does not affect the deeper layers of the tooth. Root canal therapy is recommended if the crack extends to the root of the tooth and/or becomes infected.

Treatment options if the tooth cannot be saved

If a cracked tooth cannot be saved and must be removed and replaced, there are several tooth-replacement options to consider. Most notably, the patient can generally choose between an implant-supported dental crown, a fixed dental bridge that is supported by abutment teeth, and a partial removable denture.

Frequently asked questions about cracked tooth treatment

The following are answers to several frequently asked questions about cracked tooth treatment from a dentist.

How can I choose the right treatment option for my cracked tooth?

As mentioned, dental crowns, veneers, and bonding are used to repair a mild to moderate crack in a tooth. Veneers and bonding are commonly used for front teeth, especially if the damage is primarily cosmetic and on the visual surface of the tooth. If the crack occurs to a tooth that is more commonly used for chewing (i.e., molars, premolars), then a dental crown may be best. For severe cracks, root canal therapy may be the best solution, followed by the placement of a crown.

What diagnostic tests may be involved during my dental visit?

Your dentist may need to perform dental x-rays and an oral examination to gain a clear understanding of the severity of the damage and to ensure no other teeth need treatment. The diagnostic process is typically quick and non-invasive.

What are the leading causes of a cracked tooth?

The most common cause of a cracked tooth is dental trauma, such as a blow to the face during a car accident, sporting accident, or biting down hard. Bruxism is also a leading cause of cracked teeth. Although it is less common for poor oral hygiene to directly lead to a cracked tooth, the weaker the dental enamel is the higher the risk the patient is of a cracked (or chipped) tooth.

Our dental practice offers cracked tooth treatment

Contact us to schedule a consultation visit if you have a cracked tooth in need of repair. We can also address any other oral health concerns that you may have with a treatment plan.

Request an appointment here: https://whiteflintfamilydental.com or call White Flint Family Dental at (301) 273-1085 for an appointment in our Rockville office.

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