Dental emergencies involving tooth fractures and cracks can be both painful and alarming. Whether a minor chip or a severe fracture extending into the root, these dental issues require immediate attention and proper treatment to prevent further damage and preserve your dental health.Â
Our Woodland Hills emergency dentist is here to help you address cracked or fractured teeth for instant relief. Call 818-491-7294 to schedule an emergency visit at our San Fernando Valley dental office.
If you require an emergency dentist near you in Woodland Hills, CA, our team is here to promptly relieve your pain and restore your oral health.
Craze lines are superficial cracks that affect the outer enamel of the tooth. They’re typically harmless and don’t require immediate treatment. However, if they cause aesthetic concerns, dental bonding can be used to improve their appearance.
A fractured cusp occurs when a part of the tooth’s chewing surface breaks off. This type of fracture usually doesn’t cause pain, but it may lead to discomfort during chewing. Our Woodland Hills emergency dentist can restore the tooth by placing a dental crown over it.
A cracked tooth involves a more significant fracture that extends from the chewing surface toward the root. Cracked teeth can be painful, especially when chewing, and may cause sensitivity to temperature changes. Depending on the severity, a dental crown, root canal treatment, or extraction may be necessary.
A split tooth occurs when a tooth is vertically divided into separate segments. This type of fracture usually extends from the chewing surface to the root and can be painful. Saving a split tooth may not be possible, and extraction may be the only solution.
A vertical root fracture starts in the tooth’s root and extends upward. This fracture isn’t visible to the naked eye and may cause intermittent pain when biting. Unfortunately, vertical root fractures often result in tooth extraction.
Understanding the causes of tooth fractures and cracks can help you take preventive measures to protect your teeth. Common factors that can lead to tooth fractures include:
Age and Wear: As we age, our teeth naturally weaken and become more prone to fractures and cracks
We offer several types of sedation to alleviate dental anxiety and ensure your ultimate comfort.
Dental bonding is a non-invasive and cost-effective treatment option for minor tooth fractures, including craze lines and small chips. During the procedure, your dentist will apply a tooth-colored composite resin to the damaged area, carefully shaping and bonding it to the tooth. Dental bonding restores the tooth’s appearance and reinforces its structure, providing strength and protection.
A dental crown, also known as a cap, is a popular option for restoring a severely fractured tooth. If a substantial portion of the tooth is damaged, or if the crack extends into the root, a dental crown is often recommended. The procedure involves placing a custom-made crown over the entire visible portion of the tooth, effectively restoring its shape, function, and appearance. Dental crowns are durable and long-lasting, making them an excellent solution for extensive tooth fractures.
When a tooth fracture reaches the inner pulp of the tooth, it can cause excruciating pain and sensitivity. In such cases, a root canal treatment may be necessary to save the tooth from extraction. During a root canal procedure, the infected or damaged pulp is removed, and the root canal system is thoroughly cleaned and sealed. Once root canal treatment is complete, a dental crown is often placed to protect and strengthen the treated tooth.
In some situations, tooth fractures are so severe that the affected tooth can’t be saved. Tooth extraction becomes the last resort when the damage is extensive, the tooth can’t be effectively restored, or it poses a risk of infection to surrounding teeth. After the extraction, your dentist will discuss tooth replacement options, such as dental implants, bridges, or dentures, to restore your smile and maintain oral function.
Prevention is key to maintaining healthy teeth and avoiding dental emergencies like fractures and cracks. Here are some preventive measures you can take:
Visiting the emergency room for a cracked tooth is generally not necessary unless you’re experiencing severe pain, excessive bleeding, or other serious symptoms along with the tooth fracture. In most cases, it’s best to schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible for appropriate evaluation and treatment.
Not all fractured teeth need to be pulled. The course of treatment depends on the severity of the fracture and the extent of damage to the tooth. In some cases, dental bonding, crowns, or root canal therapy can effectively repair the fractured tooth and save it. However, if the tooth is extensively damaged and cannot be restored, extraction may be the only viable option.
Fixing a broken tooth is relatively urgent, especially if the fracture has exposed the inner layers of the tooth, leading to sensitivity and pain. Immediate treatment can prevent further damage, and infection, and alleviate discomfort. Ignoring a broken tooth may worsen the condition and may eventually lead to the loss of the tooth.
Schedule an appointment with your dentist within a day or two of experiencing the break. If immediate care isn’t possible, taking proper precautions, such as avoiding hard foods and maintaining good oral hygiene, can help prevent further damage until you can see a dentist.
When it comes to emergency tooth fractures and cracks, time is of the essence. Seeking prompt dental care and understanding the available treatment options are critical for preserving your dental health and relieving pain.Â
Remember, if you encounter a tooth fracture or crack, don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Chaves or visit an emergency dental clinic for immediate attention. Call our Woodland Hills dental office at 818-491-7294 to schedule an appointment.
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