DENTAL PROBLEMS
Cracked Tooth
DENTAL PROBLEMS
Cracked Tooth
A cracked tooth occurs when the structural integrity of the enamel weakens and a faint line becomes visible on the surface. Possible causes of cracks include chewing on hard foods, injuries, teeth grinding, large fillings or regular wear-and-tear.
What do they look like?
There are different presentations of cracks within teeth
Craze line
These are very small superficial lines within the enamel, often presenting across many teeth including front ones. These do not cause pain and usually don’t need any treatment
Cracks around fillings or back teeth
Cracks in back teeth often present as a more defined crack on the sides of the tooth or around fillings. These cracks tend to extend further into the tooth structure and are at greater risk of breaking, spreading towards the nerve or extending vertically down the root.
Symptoms
While not every cracked tooth causes discomfort, pain only stimulated by biting (especially harder or grainy foods) is commonly associated with a crack. If the crack has extended towards the nerve the tooth may become sensitive to temperature or it may cause persistent pain. A more advanced crack may present as a loose tooth fragment or a tooth that has been split.
Treatment
Some cracks do not pose any issues, especially when superficial and in lower impact locations. However when a crack occurs in a location that exhibits high bite pressures or if it puts the tooth at risk of nerve damage or a vertical split, treatment is optimal. Treatment options vary depending on the situation and range from a filling replacement to a crown which protects the whole tooth from detrimental damage.
BLACKBURN DENTAL GROUP
Book your dental health check
Get in touch to make an appointment with one of our friendly dentists. We can perform a thorough check-up and help answer any questions you may have about your oral health.
BLACKBURN DENTAL GROUP
Book your dental health check
Get in touch to make an appointment with one of our friendly dentists. We can perform a thorough check-up and help answer any questions you may have about your oral health.