Understanding Chipped, Cracked, and Broken Teeth: A Guide for Patients

Your teeth are incredibly strong—stronger even than bone. But despite their strength, they can still suffer damage from tooth decay or a sudden impact. This is because unlike your bones, your teeth cannot repair themselves when damaged.

At the office of MD Family Dental Care, we see many dental emergencies related to chipped, cracked, and broken teeth. Whether it's from biting into hard foods or sustaining a direct blow to the face, these issues can be painful and may require immediate treatment.

The type of damage your tooth has suffered will determine whether it can be repaired and how that repair is done. For minor chips or cracks, known as craze lines, no urgent care is needed. However, more significant damage might require dental bonding, a filling, or even a crown.

If the fracture exposes your tooth's nerve, you may need a root canal procedure. In some cases, the damage to the tooth may be so severe that it cannot be saved and will need to be extracted.

Types of Tooth Damage

There are five main types of tooth damage:

• Craze Lines. These tiny cracks in the outer enamel layer are common in adults and usually cause no discomfort. They typically require no treatment.
• Fractured Cusp. If you break part of your tooth's chewing surface, or a cusp, this can be painful and may require a full coverage crown. If the fracture affects the nerve, a root canal procedure might be necessary.
• Cracked Tooth. A crack that extends from the chewing surface of your tooth down towards the root can cause damage to the nerve. If left untreated, this type of tooth damage may worsen and lead to losing your tooth.
• Split Tooth. In a split tooth, the crack divides the tooth into two segments. The extent and position of the crack will determine whether any portion of the tooth can be saved.
• Vertical Root Fracture. This fracture starts in the root of your tooth and extends up towards the chewing surface. Teeth with a vertical root fracture often require extraction.

Remember, if you've chipped, cracked, or broken a tooth, it's important to seek timely care from our dental office. Our skilled team can evaluate the damage and provide the appropriate treatment to restore your smile and alleviate any pain.

Your oral health is our top priority at MD Family Dental Care. We strive to make every visit a positive, comfortable experience for you. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or learn more about our dental services.