Article reviews how dentists assess tooth fractures and determine whether restoration or extraction will lead to more stable long-term outcomes.
Lynchburg, Virginia, September 28th / PRNewswire / -- Can a cracked tooth be saved instead of having to be extracted? Dental experts from Timberlake Family Dentistry answered this question in an article published on HelloNation, and explained how dentists assess cracks in teeth and decide whether to repair the damaged teeth or not. Eric J
The article points out that the extent of a broken tooth can range from a small chip to a fracture below the gum line. The location and depth of the damage often determine which treatment is more appropriate for the broken tooth. Many damaged teeth can be repaired, but severe fractures may make extraction a more predictable option.
According to the article, dentists will first check how much healthy tooth structure remains above and below the gum line. Sufficiently stable structure must be retained in order to support a durable restoration. Dentists will also check whether the fracture involves the enamel, dentin, pulp, or tooth root.
HelloNation The article points out that dental imaging can reveal damages that are not visible during routine examinations. X-rays or other dental images may show issues with tooth roots, bones, or internal tissues. Dentists may also assess the teeth's response through pressure, temperature, and other tests.
For small cracks and minor fractures, the article mentions that dental bonding or filling may be treatment options. When enough of the remaining tooth structure is strong enough to support the restoration, these methods can rebuild the damaged area. Dental bonding also helps to restore the shape and function of the tooth.
Larger fractures may require dental crowns. The article explains that dental crowns can cover and protect the remaining teeth, preventing further damage from chewing forces. Before recommending this solution, dentists must determine whether the underlying teeth and roots are still stable enough to withstand the restoration.
Deeper fractures may expose or damage the dental pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. In some cases, root canal treatment can save the tooth. The article explains that root canal treatment involves removing the damaged or infected pulp first, then sealing the tooth, and protecting it with a suitable restoration.
The article also emphasizes that a broken tooth does not always cause pain. When the nerve is not exposed, the fracture may have almost no symptoms, but bacteria can still enter the damaged area. Continuous chewing can also put repeated pressure on the tooth and worsen the crack.
Some fractures are more difficult to repair. If the crack extends below the gum line or through the tooth root, there may be too little stable structure left, making it challenging to carry out a reliable repair. The article cites vertical root fractures as an example; such cases significantly limit treatment options.
When teeth cannot support fillings, crowns, or other restorations, extraction may be considered. The dentist's decision is based on the overall condition of the tooth, not just whether there is pain or not. Timing is also important, as small cracks can worsen due to chewing, bruxism (teeth grinding), further injury, tooth decay, or infection.
The article explains that when dentists develop treatment plans for broken teeth, they take into account various factors such as the depth of the fracture, the remaining structure of the tooth, the health of the pulp, the condition of the tooth root, the surrounding bone, and the force of chewing. Timberlake Family Dentistry dental experts Eric J Smith provided relevant insights in the article, which emphasizes that examinations and dental imaging are important steps in deciding whether to perform restoration or extraction.
"Can a broken tooth be saved instead of being extracted?" features the insights provided by Timberlake Family Dentistry dental expert and Eric J Smith doctor from Lynchburg, Virginia, in HelloNation.
About HelloNation
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