4819 Avenue Q, Lubbock, TX 79412
Fix Your Cracked Teeth for a Stronger Smile
A cracked tooth can be more than just a minor inconvenience – it can cause pain, sensitivity, and even lead to more severe dental issues if left untreated. For many years, the only solution for a cracked tooth was extraction, but today’s dental technologies offer more options than ever. Extraction is necessary for cracks that dip below the gumline, but many teeth can still be easily salvaged and protected with a crown or a root canal/crown combination.
At Bliss Dental & Orthodontics in Lubbock, TX, we will give our best to help you save your original tooth. When you schedule an appointment with us, our team will review your x-rays, provide options, and recommend the best course of action.
What Causes a Cracked Tooth?
A cracked tooth can develop for many reasons. Common causes include biting down on something hard, oral injuries from an accident, and even grinding your teeth. Cracks can form due to aging, especially if you have multiple fillings or other dental treatments. Regardless of the cause, a cracked tooth should be treated promptly to avoid complications such as infection or tooth loss.
Treatment Options for Cracked Teeth
Some cracked teeth may require only minor treatment, while others may need more extensive dental procedures. Depending on the severity of the damage, you have various options like:
- Bonding: For small, superficial cracks, dental bonding can be used to fill and seal the crack.
- Crowns: If the crack is larger, a crown may be placed over the tooth to protect it. Crowns are custom-made to fit the tooth and restore its strength and function.
- Root Canal Therapy: If the crack extends into the tooth’s pulp (the center of the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels), a root canal may be necessary. This procedure involves removing the damaged pulp, cleaning the tooth, and sealing it with a filling. Usually, a crown is placed on the tooth to protect it.
- Tooth Extraction: Extraction is necessary if the crack is severe enough that the tooth cannot be saved. After the tooth is removed, you will have replacement options, such as dental implants or bridges, to restore your smile.
How Prompt Treatment Can Help
Early treatment of a cracked tooth can stop additional damage. If left untreated, cracks can expose the tooth's inner layers, leading to infection and more serious harm. Timely intervention can prevent extraction and restore the tooth to its maximum strength and function.
Aftercare for Cracked Teeth
After your treatment, it’s essential to follow your dentist's aftercare instructions. Avoid chewing hard foods or using the treated tooth for the first few days. If you’ve had a crown placed, be gentle while eating, especially with hot or cold foods, as your tooth may be sensitive initially.
Don’t be ashamed of a cracked tooth! As we age or experience stress, it’s common to clench or grind, which naturally leads to fractures. But you don’t have to struggle with a cracked or painful tooth. Call Bliss Dental & Orthodontics in Lubbock, TX, to request an appointment today.