Cracked Teeth
Some common types of cracks are superficial and require no intervention while other cracks can eventually lead loss of your tooth. A cracked tooth can cause a wide variety of symptoms. The movement along the crack irritates the nerve of the tooth. If cracks and fractures are left untreated they can allow bacteria from your saliva to penetrate the tooth and cause infection.
At Modern Endo of Napa we will thoroughly evaluate your tooth to determine if endodontic treatment is necessary. Sometimes a fractured tooth will only need the added protection of a crown, which would be done by your dentist.
Fractured Cusp
A cusp is the pointed part at the corners of the chewing surface of your tooth. If this becomes weak, the cusp may fracture. Part of the cusp may break off or may incompletely fracture and may need to be removed by your dentist. A fractured cusp rarely damages the pulp and therefore usually does not require root canal treatment. Your dentist or Dr. Tigrett will need to evaluate your tooth to determine the best course of action. With prompt care your tooth can usually be restored by your dentist, needing only a crown.
Cracked Tooth
Cracked Tooth
This type of crack extends from the chewing surface of the tooth vertically towards the base and the root. Due to the location of the crack, damage to the pulp (nerve) of the tooth is common. Endodontic treatment is usually needed to treat the damaged pulp. Dr. Tigrett will then closely evaluate your tooth through the microscope to determine the extent of the crack. If the prognosis is good endodontic treatment will be completed. A crown will then be placed to protect the cracked tooth. At times, the crack may extend below the gingival tissue. In those cases the long-term prognosis of your tooth is not good. Dr. Tigrett will review the alternative options available to you; which may include removal of the tooth and replacement with a bridge or dental implant. Although we do not typically remove the tooth in our office, Dr. Tigrett will work with your dentist to guide you through the process.
Vertical Root Fracture
Vertical root fractures are rare but can occur in teeth that have had previous endodontic treatment. Vertical root fractures are cracks that begin deep in the root and extend toward the chewing surface. In some limited cases the tooth can be maintained by removing the damaged portion of root. Extraction of the tooth is usually recommended.
Ryan Tigrett D.D.S. Diplomate, American Board of Endodontics
We would love to hear from you!
Phone: 707-265-7790
Fax: 707-265-7793
Email: info@endonapa.com
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3448 Villa Lane
Suite 101
Napa, CA 94558
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Our Office Hours:
We are open five days a week. Monday to Friday from 8:00am to 5:00pm.
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