Treating Fractured Root
When the teeth and mouth experience trauma, it can cause serious oral health problems. Issues including root fractures or cracks require treatment right away. Prompt treatment is critical in preserving the tooth and preventing an issue from worsening.
Root fractures can be caused by various things including the extreme pressure associated with chewing. These forces can cause problematic cracks. Another common cause of fractures is when a large filling is damaged. Fractures can also be caused by bad habits like chewing on ice, pens, or using the teeth to open things.
Below are common causes for cracks of the teeth:
- Use of the teeth for purposes other than chewing; this includes chewing on hard objects or opening things
- A large filling can result in weakness
- Trauma from contact sports, an accident, or injury
- An abrupt temperature change in the mouth
Fracture of the Roots
There are multiple different ways in which the teeth can fracture. It is possible for cracks to be vertical or horizontal. The crack can also vary in its severity and range from mild to severe. In some cases the crack is not noticeable, while other times it is incredibly obvious. Treatment will vary based on the specific cause, severity, location in the mouth, and general health of the tooth. Common types of root fractures are summarized below:
1. Split tooth - This fracture occurs when two distinct segments of which can be physically separated.
2. Fracture below the gums - This fracture begins near the tooth’s crown and extends into the root.
3. Vertical root fracture - A crack can start at the root and extend up into the crown. While this fracture does not usually result in pain, it is often detected due to infection.
A common misconception is that all fractures are painful. It is possible for the fracture to not result in any symptoms. In this case, the fracture may go unnoticed until it becomes serious or causes issues. Regular visits to the dentist are vital in detecting these types of issues. During these routine appointments, dentists complete a thorough examination and can obtain x-rays. Symptoms associated with a fractured root include the following:
- Pain from chewing or biting
- Sensitivity from exposure to hot, cold, and sugary food or drinks
- Pain that may come and go
- Swollen or inflamed gums
Treatment
The severity of the fracture will determine the treatment options. Dentists can sometimes use a splint to stabilize the damaged tooth. This is most common in cases of a mild fracture.
Fractures which extend into the pulp often require a root canal which can aid in preserving the tooth. A root canal involves the dental professional treating infection and removing damaged tissue. During the last step of the procedure, the canals and pulp chamber are filled. A crown is then placed to help restore and strengthen the tooth.
Unfortunately, some toot fractures are quite severe and the tooth cannot be preserved. When fractures cannot be repaired, the tooth must be extracted. The dentist will exhaust all options to preserve the natural tooth. In cases where a fractured tooth must be removed, there are excellent tooth-replacement solutions available such as dental implants.