Tooth Root Fractures Fullerton, CA
Tooth root fractures are cracks that occur in the tooth root, which lies below the gums. Tooth fractures can occur due to trauma to the mouth, tooth grinding, or just simple wear and tear. Even if individuals take good care of their teeth, they can be susceptible to injuries such as fractures or cracks.
Treatment for tooth root fractures is available at Saman Malkami DMD in Fullerton and the surrounding area. While tooth fractures can initially be small and painless, it is good to have them examined by an endodontist to ensure they do not develop into a larger problem. Call us at (714) 459-8002 to learn more or schedule an appointment with an endodontist.
Why See an Endodontist for a Tooth Root Fracture
When a crack occurs in the tooth root, a root canal from an endodontist may be recommended. Dentists who specialize in performing procedures on the insides of teeth, such as root canals, are known as endodontists. They are specially trained to diagnose and treat problems that affect the tooth pulp. The tooth pulp is connective tissue on the inside of the tooth, which extends through the tooth root. Endodontists not only have additional training in root canal procedures, but they perform these procedures more often.
“Endodontists get specially trained to diagnose and treat problems that affect the tooth pulp.”
Symptoms of a Tooth Root Fracture
Cracked teeth can lead to tooth loss. A tooth root fracture can also lead to an infection in the surrounding gums or bone. This can lead to more extensive dental problems. .
Tooth root fractures may not cause any symptoms at first, which can make them challenging to diagnose. Tooth root fractures may go unnoticed until they lead to an infection in the bone or gums. The most common symptom of a fractured tooth is pain which may be intermittent and is more likely to occur when biting or chewing. Other symptoms of a cracked tooth may include:
- A pocket between the tooth and the gums
- Sensitivity to cold or cold foods
- Swelling around the tooth
- Throbbing teeth throughout the day
A cracked tooth root can sometimes be saved with root canal treatment and a dental crown. An untreated cracked tooth will eventually split under pressure and will have to be removed.
“The most common symptom of a fractured tooth is pain which may be intermittent and is more likely to occur when biting or chewing.”
Types of Tooth Root Fractures
Tooth root fractures are typically classified as either vertical fractures or transverse fractures. The crack begins in the tooth root and moves upward toward the crown in a vertical root fracture. Vertical root fractures are the most common type of root fracture. Transverse root fractures run horizontally through the tooth root. Horizontal root fractures are relatively rare and occur in only three percent of all dental injuries.
“Vertical root fractures are the most common type of root fracture.”
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Diagnosis and Treatment
Tooth root fractures may be detectable on dental X-rays. An endodontist may also use a special light or dye, which allows them to detect fracture lines in the tooth. Several different options are available for treating tooth root fractures. The fractured root may be removed in some cases, and the rest of the tooth may be salvageable. An endodontist may also choose to use a particular type of cement to stop the progress of the fracture. In many cases, tooth extraction cannot be avoided, but the endodontist will first explore every possible option for saving the tooth.
“Several different options are available for treating tooth root fractures.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. Can a cracked tooth be fixed?
Q. What are the symptoms of a cracked tooth?
Q. What are the different types of tooth root fractures?
Q. How is a cracked tooth diagnosed?
Q. How do you prevent a cracked tooth?
People Also Ask
Q. What types of tooth damage does an endodontist treat?
Q. How is a tooth abscess treated?
Q. Will a tooth infection go away on its own?
Q. When should I seek dental care for sensitive teeth?
Q. What are signs that a tooth needs saving?
Q. What is the difference between a dentist and an endodontist?
Aftercare and Avoiding Future Tooth Root Fractures
Following treatment for a tooth root fracture, it is vital to follow the instructions provided by the endodontist to aid in healing and prevent infection. The recovery time following a procedure could be two or three weeks, depending on what needs to be done. The practitioner may recommend the patient eat soft foods and avoid chewing on the affected side of the mouth. The endodontist may also prescribe painkillers or recommend the use of over-the-counter pain medications.
Practicing proper oral hygiene and regular dentist appointments can help prevent additional tooth root fractures in the future. Avoid chewing hard foods or ice. If someone grinds their teeth at night or plays sports, they should talk to a dentist about using a specially made mouthguard.
“Practicing proper oral hygiene and regular dentist appointments can help prevent additional tooth root fractures in the future.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What causes a tooth root fracture?
A. Many different factors can cause tooth cracks and fractures. Some of the most common causes of tooth fractures are:
Q. Can a fractured tooth heal?
A. A fractured tooth cannot heal. If the tooth can be saved, the goal will be to strengthen the damaged tooth enough to protect the tooth and the tooth pulp from further damage. Having a fractured tooth repaired as soon as possible can reduce the likelihood of infection or additional damage.
Q. What factors increase the risk of tooth fractures?
A. Teeth can weaken over time, which makes older adults more susceptible to tooth fractures. Exposing teeth to temperature extremes in a short period can also increase the risk of fractures. Large fillings can make the tooth structure less stable and more prone to injury. If individuals participate in contact sports, they should always wear a mouth guard or a mask to protect their face.
Q. How long does it take to fix a fractured tooth?
A. The time required for treatment will depend on whether the person had an extraction or another procedure, such as a root canal. Some procedures will require multiple dental appointments. For example, while a root canal may take roughly an hour, the person may wear a temporary crown and then return to their dentist when their permanent crown is ready.
Q. When should I see an endodontist for a tooth root fracture?
A. If you suspect you have a tooth root fracture, it is a good idea to see an endodontist as soon as possible. However, you may not be aware of a tooth root fracture until an infection develops. Make an appointment if you experience continued tooth pain along with a fever, swollen gums, bad breath, swollen lymph nodes, or extreme sensitivity to hold or cold foods.
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By visiting us as soon as possible, our team can help get you the professional treatment you need. Instead of waiting around and allowing the symptoms to get worse, we can provide you with treatment options.
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Definitions
Call Us Today
Tooth root fractures should not be ignored. Even if no symptoms are present or symptoms are mild, a tooth root fracture can lead to more severe problems in the future. If you think you have fractured a tooth root, talk to an endodontist about possible treatment options. Call us at 714-459-8002 to learn more or to schedule an appointment.
Helpful Related Links
- American Association of Endodontists. Tooth Pain. 2024
- Delta Dental. Cracked tooth: types of tooth fractures. 2024
- Healthline. What to Do for Pain and a Broken Tooth. 2024
- Mayo Clinic. Bruxism (teeth grinding). 2024
- Mouth Healthy. Endodontics. 2024
- National Library of Medicine. Review of Cracked Tooth Syndrome. 2024
- WebMD. Why Are My Lymph Nodes Swollen?. 2024
- Wiley Online Library. Diagnosis and management of transverse root fractures. 2024
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