Professional Advice For Cracked Tooth Repair Solutions

Do you have a cracked tooth that needs to be repaired? If so, you’re not alone. Millions of people worldwide suffer from tooth damage yearly, including fractures and chips in teeth. While it’s never easy to face the prospect of repairing a damaged smile, knowing what to expect can make the treatment much easier. In this blog post, we’ll look closer at cracked tooth repair, exploring which treatments are available and addressing common questions about cost and recovery time for dental repairs. Read on to learn more! 

 

Signs and Symptoms of a Cracked Tooth

A cracked tooth can result in pain and discomfort while also putting the tooth at risk of infection. To help you understand how to spot a cracked tooth, this blog section will look at some of the signs and symptoms of a cracked tooth. 

 

Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity is a telltale sign of a cracked or broken tooth. When a tooth gets cracked, it becomes more sensitive to hot and cold temperatures. This sensitivity will occur because the crack has exposed the sensitive nerve endings in the tooth. The sensitivity will often be sudden and feel painful when in contact with hot or cold food or beverages. 

 

Pain While Eating

A tooth with a crack will be painful while chewing food, especially if the crack is severe. The pain will occur due to the pressure applied while chewing, which can cause the crack to widen further. People who experience pain while eating should schedule a dentist appointment to investigate the root cause of the pain. 

 

Small or Medium-Sized Cracks

A small crack in the tooth might be too tiny to see, but you will still feel the sensitivity or pain. A medium-sized crack might be visible as a small line across the surface of the tooth enamel. In both cases, a dental visit is necessary to investigate the extent of the damage. 

 

A Fractured Cusp

A cracked cusp that is the pointed part of your basic tooth structure can happen due to overuse with time. You may not feel any pain, but it is best to seek the attention of a dentist to prevent the crack from going too deep and causing problems. 

 

Pain When Biting

A chipped or broken tooth is also painful when biting pressure is applied. When you bite down on your food, the tooth will experience intense pain that subsides when the pressure is removed. Pain while biting down indicates a crack and should be investigated by a dental professional. 

 

Treatment Options for Cracked Teeth

If you have a cracked tooth, you must visit a dentist immediately to avoid further damage. In this blog section, we will explore the different treatment options for cracked teeth and the pros and cons of each. 

 

Dental Bonding

Dental bonding is a popular treatment for chipped teeth. It involves applying a tooth-coloured composite resin to the affected tooth—the resin bonds to the tooth, restoring its shape and function. Dental bonding is a simple and affordable option that normally takes only one visit to complete to fix a cracked tooth. However, it is less durable than other restorations and may need to be replaced over time. 

 

Dental Crowns

A dental crown is a custom-adjusted cap that masks the entire tooth. It is a more permanent solution than dental bonding and has better durability. A dental crown is usually recommended for broken teeth, requiring multiple visits to complete the restoration process. A dental crown is a more costly option compared to dental bonding. 

 

Root Canals

A root canal is recommended for more severe cases of cracked teeth. It is a procedure that involves removing the damaged or infected pulp from the tooth. Once the pulp is extracted, the tooth is cleaned and sealed with a dental filling or crown. Root canal treatment relieves pain and preserves the natural tooth. However, it is a more invasive procedure and requires multiple visits.

 

Tooth Extraction

Tooth extraction is usually the last solution for cracked teeth. It is only recommended when the tooth is beyond repair or has severe damage. Extraction can lead to various complications, such as shifting of other teeth and further damage to the jawbone. However, it is sometimes a necessary option to prevent further pain and damage. 

 

Dental Implant

A dental implant is a permanent treatment solution for cracked teeth. It involves replacing the damaged tooth with an artificial tooth surgically inserted into the jawbone. A dental implant is more costly than other treatments but is a long-term solution with better durability. 

 

 

Causes of Cracked Teeth and How to Avoid Them?

This blog section will review some common causes of cracked teeth and provide tips on avoiding them. 

 

Biting into hard foods

One of the most common causes of a cracked or chipped tooth is biting into hard foods like ice, candy, or popcorn kernels. To prevent this from happening, try to avoid chewing on these hard foods altogether. If you decide to indulge in these foods, be extra careful and take small bites. 

 

Grinding your teeth

Teeth grinding, or bruxism, can put a lot of pressure on your teeth and cause them to crack. If you grind your teeth, talk to your dentist about getting a custom mouthguard to wear at night. This can help prevent the pressure on your teeth and protect them from damage. 

 

Trauma or injury

A strong blow to the face or mouth can easily crack a tooth. This can happen during sports, a car accident, or any other physical trauma. While you can’t always avoid a dental emergency, wearing a mouthguard during activities like sports can help protect your teeth. 

 

Age and wear

As we age, our teeth become more susceptible to cracking. This is because teeth naturally become weaker over time due to wear and tear. To prevent cracking due to age, maintain your teeth and visit your dentist regularly for check-ups. 

 

Decay or filling problems

If you have decay in a tooth or a filling that has become worn down, this can weaken the tooth and make it more likely to crack. To prevent this from happening, make sure to get any cavities filled promptly, and if you do have fillings, get them checked regularly by your dentist. 

 

The Cost and Timeframe of Cracked Tooth Repair Procedures

This blog section will explore the different types of cracked teeth repair procedures available, their costs, and expected healing times. 

 

Types of Cracked Tooth Repair Procedures

A few different types of procedures can be used to repair a broken or chipped tooth. The most common options are bonding, filling, and crowns. Bonding is a cosmetic procedure where a dentist applies a tooth-coloured material to the tooth’s surface to fill in cracks or gaps. As the name suggests, a filling is a material inserted into the tooth to fill in the space left by the crack. A crown, on the other hand, is a cap that is placed over the tooth to protect it from further damage. The option chosen will depend on the extent and severity of the damage and the tooth’s location. 

 

Cost of Cracked Tooth Repair Procedures

The cost of repairing chipped or broken teeth can be significant, with prices varying depending on the procedure used and the dentist’s experience. Bonding can cost from $300 per tooth, while a filling can cost from $90 per tooth. Crowns are the most expensive option, costing anywhere from $800 per tooth. These costs can be higher if the extensive damage and the procedure are complex. It is important to note that dental insurance sometimes covers some of the costs of repair procedures. 

 

Healing Times for Cracked Tooth Repair Procedures

The time required for healing varies depending on the repair type, the damage’s extent, and the patient’s overall oral health. Generally, patients who undergo bonding or filling can resume their normal daily routine within a few hours of the procedure. Crowns take longer to restore, usually taking about one to two weeks for the tooth to fully heal. During this time, patients may feel some sensitivity in their recovery period, lasting from a few days to two weeks. 

 

Conclusion

When it comes to cracked tooth repair, knowledge is key. Not only must you understand your treatment options, but you have to ensure you’re seeking advice and services from a highly-respected dental practice. With experience in restoring and repairing teeth that are cracked, our team here at Maroondah Dental Care is ready to help you get back on track with your oral health quickly and efficiently. We welcome any questions or concerns you may have about this type of procedure, so don’t hesitate to contact us if there’s anything you want more clarification on! We understand the importance of feeling confident when fixing your cracked tooth, so don’t be shy. Instead, call us at (03) 9007 2532 for comprehensive information regarding treatments and financing options. We look forward to helping you find the best solution for your dental needs! 

 

 

References

Cracked Tooth: Symptoms, Treatments, and Recovery
https://www.healthline.com/health/cracked-tooth

Cracked Teeth – American Association of Endodontists
https://www.aae.org/patients/dental-symptoms/cracked-teeth/