What is a tooth fracture?
Any crack on the tooth surface resulting from trauma, chewing hard food, grinding of teeth during night or mechanical wear and tear of tooth structure, results in tooth fracture or cracked tooth.
- Is the fracture line always visible?
No, the fractured line or the crack over a tooth surface might sometimes be very difficult to detect. However, the tooth might become symptomatic or painful in some cases.
What are the types or tooth fracture?
Cracks may appear as the following:
1. Craze cracks: They are tiny cracks in the enamel (hard outer surface) of teeth. They usually don’t pain and don’t require any treatment. If sensitive, toothpaste can be used for the same.
2. Fractured tooth cusp: This type of fracture may occur around a sharp cusp, a dental filling or while chewing hard food. It might pain and require treatment.
3. Cracks extending into gums: A vertical crack that extending through the tooth which is above gum line can usually be saved. However, if the crack line extends into the gum that tooth might be needed to be pulled out or undergo RCT. Prompt treatment offers the best chance of saving the tooth.
4. Vertical tooth fracture: The tooth crack travels through the entire length of tooth and root and is often impossible to save. The tooth usually becomes painful and the fracture line might also result in a split tooth if not treated promptly.
What are the causes of tooth fracture?
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