The outermost hard shell of the tooth is called enamel and it protects the inner part of the tooth called the pulp. The pulp contains nerves and blood vessels. A break or crack in the hard shell of the tooth is known as a tooth fracture. There are different kinds of tooth fractures, depending on different factors:

• Slight cracks that cause no pain and involve no treatment known as the craze lines.
• The chewing part of the tooth that has a crack is known as a fractured cusp.
• A tooth with cracks from the chewing surface to the root is known as a cracked tooth.
• A tooth that has cracks down through the roots and separates a section of the tooth is known as a split tooth.
• Cracks that occur in the roots and ultimately move upwards to the chewing surface known as the vertical root fracture.

Symptoms of Tooth Fracture

Tooth fractures are usually caused while chewing hard foods or accidentally biting down on a hard object. They can also be caused by a blow to the face.

Not every tooth fracture shows any symptoms, like craze lines. However, some may cause symptoms that could lead to:

• Pain while chewing
• Sensitivity and pain while eating hot or cold foods
• Spontaneous pain

Treatment to Repair Fracture

Tooth fractures do not heal. And most treatments are aimed at protecting the tooth and the pulp interior. The treatment generally depends upon the seriousness of the tooth fracture. These treatment options may include:

• The dentist places a cap over the tooth that acts as a temporary crown and lets it correct the problem on its own.
• Dental veneers, thin coverings, are placed over the tooth if you have a small crack on the tooth surface.
• A root canal is the best option for you if you have a severely damaged tooth. This process cleans all the damaged pulp and fixes the tooth with a new filling.
• In a vertical tooth fracture, the dentist will remove the fractured portion of the tooth.
• If the cracks extend below the gum line, they will be removed with the help of tooth extraction.

If you want to lower the chances of fracturing your tooth, follow the preventive measures that will act as protectors of your teeth. Your tooth will be safe, secure, and less prone to any issues like fractures if it stays healthy and sturdy.

Diana Dizik, DDS, and her team of dental specialists offer you comprehensive dental care at San Mateo, CA. Call us at (650) 348-5424. You can also book an appointment online or visit us at 720 N El Camino Real, San Mateo, CA 94401.