Cracked Tooth and Cracked Molar: Comprehensive Guide to Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention
A cracked tooth or molar, including hairline cracks and fractured cusp vertical root fractures, is a common dental issue that can range from a minor inconvenience to a serious problem requiring immediate attention, such as endodontic treatment for affected teeth.
These cracks, also known as dental fractures, tooth fractures, or cracked teeth syndrome, can occur for a variety of reasons, from biting down on something hard to underlying health conditions. Understanding the causes, symptoms, treatment options, and preventive measures for cracked teeth and molars is essential for maintaining oral health and avoiding more severe complications.
What Is a Cracked Tooth?
A cracked tooth refers to a situation where the outer surface of the tooth, known as the enamel, has a fracture or crack, requiring treatment. Cracks can vary in size and severity, from minor hairline fractures to more significant splits that can affect the entire structure of the tooth. A hairline tooth crack, specifically, involves one of the back teeth, which are particularly vulnerable due to the heavy forces they endure during chewing.
Types of Cracks in Teeth
- Craze Lines: These are superficial cracks that only affect the outer enamel and are common in adults. They are usually harmless and do not cause pain.
- Fractured Cusp: This occurs when a piece of the chewing surface of the tooth breaks off, often around a filling. While this type of crack does not usually involve the pulp (the inner part of the tooth), fractured cusp and vertical root fractures can cause discomfort and require dental treatment.
- Cracked Tooth: A crack that extends from the chewing surface down towards the root, but not into the root. Early treatment is essential to prevent the crack from spreading, fractured cusp, and potentially leading to tooth loss.
- Split Tooth: A tooth with a crack that has split it into two distinct parts. This type of crack, including fractured cusp and vertical root fractures, often requires extraction as the tooth cannot be saved.
- Vertical Root Fracture: A crack that begins at the root and extends towards the chewing surface. This type of crack is often less noticeable and may only be detected through symptoms such as pain or infection. It often requires extraction.
Causes of a Cracked Tooth
Biting and Chewing Habits
One of the most common causes of cracked teeth and molars, leading to hairline tooth cracks or fractured cusp vertical root fractures, is biting down on hard objects or foods, such as ice, hard candy, or unpopped popcorn kernels.
Over time, the constant pressure from chewing can cause cracks, especially if you have the habit of clenching or grinding your teeth, a condition known as bruxism.
Trauma or Injury
Physical trauma to the face or mouth, such as a blow during sports or an accident, can result in a cracked tooth or molar.
Even a minor impact can lead to a crack, particularly if the tooth was already weakened by other factors like fractured cusp or vertical root fractures.
Age and Wear
As you age, your teeth naturally become more brittle and susceptible to cracks, fractured cusp, vertical root fractures, and cracked tooth syndrome. Years of wear and tear, combined with natural enamel thinning, can make your teeth more prone to cracking.
Large Fillings
Teeth that have large fillings are more susceptible to cracking, especially if the filling takes up a significant portion of the tooth structure, leading to fractured cusp and vertical root fractures. The remaining tooth structure may be weaker and more likely to crack under pressure due to fractured cusp or vertical root fractures.
Sudden Temperature Changes
Exposing your teeth to extreme temperature changes, such as drinking a hot beverage and then immediately eating something cold, can cause the enamel to expand and contract. This rapid change can lead to cracks in the tooth.
Underlying Health Conditions
Certain health conditions, such as osteoporosis, can weaken the bones and teeth, making them more susceptible to fractures. Additionally, acid reflux and other conditions that affect enamel strength can increase the risk of a cracked tooth or molar.
Treatment Options for Cracked Teeth and Molars
Bonding and Filling
For minor cracks, your dentist may recommend bonding, where a tooth-colored resin is applied to the cracked area and hardened with a special light. This procedure can restore the tooth’s appearance and prevent the crack from worsening.
Alternatively, if the crack involves a filling, your dentist may replace the filling to strengthen the tooth.
Symptoms of a Cracked Tooth or Molar
Common Signs to Watch For
If you suspect a cracked tooth or molar, it’s important to visit your dentist as soon as possible. The dentist will perform a thorough examination, which may include:
Visual Inspection
The dentist will look for visible cracks using a bright light and magnification.
Dental History
The dentist may ask about your dental history, including any recent trauma, grinding habits, hairline tooth cracks, or biting on hard objects.
Bite Test
The dentist may ask you to bite down on a special instrument or stick to identify the specific tooth that is causing pain.
Dental X-rays
X-rays can help identify cracks that are not visible to the naked eye, especially if they extend into the root of the tooth. However, not all cracks are visible on X-rays, so additional tests may be necessary.
Special Diagnostic Tools
In some cases, your dentist may use advanced diagnostic tools such as a dental dye, which can highlight cracks, or a fiber-optic light, which can help visualize the extent of the crack. In more complex cases, a referral to an endodontist, a specialist in root canals, may be necessary for further evaluation.
Treatment Options for Cracked Teeth and Molars
Bonding and Filling
For minor cracks, your dentist may recommend bonding, where a tooth-colored resin is applied to the cracked area and hardened with a special light. This procedure can restore the tooth’s appearance and prevent the crack from worsening.
Alternatively, if the crack involves a filling, your dentist may replace the filling to strengthen the tooth.
Dental Crowns
A dental crown is a common treatment for more significant cracks. The crown, usually made of porcelain or ceramic, covers the entire tooth, protecting it from further damage.
Crowns are particularly effective for molars, which endure a lot of pressure during chewing.
Root Canal Therapy
If the crack extends into the pulp of the tooth, causing infection or severe pain, a root canal may be necessary. This procedure involves removing the damaged pulp, cleaning the inside of the tooth, and sealing it to prevent further infection.
After a root canal, a crown is typically placed over the tooth to protect it.
Tooth Extraction
In cases where the crack is too severe to repair, such as with a split tooth or vertical root fracture, extraction may be the only option. After the tooth is removed, your dentist may recommend a dental implant, bridge, or partial denture to replace the missing tooth and restore your smile.
Preventing Cracked Teeth and Molars
Adopt Good Oral Hygiene
Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for keeping your teeth strong and healthy. Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily can help prevent decay and keep your enamel strong.
Avoid Biting Hard Objects
To reduce the risk of hairline tooth cracks, avoid biting down on hard objects such as ice, hard candy, or pens. If you eat foods with bones or pits, be careful to avoid biting down on them to prevent hairline tooth cracks.
Wear a Mouthguard
If you grind your teeth at night (bruxism) and are concerned about hairline tooth cracks, consider wearing a mouthguard to protect your teeth from the pressure. A custom-fitted mouthguard from your dentist is the most effective option.
Use Caution with Temperature Extremes
Avoid exposing your teeth to extreme temperature changes. For example, don’t drink a hot beverage immediately after eating something cold. These rapid changes can cause the enamel to expand and contract, increasing the risk of cracks.
Regular Dental Check-Ups
Seeing your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings can help catch any cracks early before they become more serious. Your dentist can also provide personalized advice on how to protect your teeth based on your oral health needs.
Complications of Untreated Cracked Teeth
Infection and Abscess
If a cracked tooth is left untreated, bacteria can enter the tooth and lead to an infection. This infection can spread to the surrounding gum tissue and even into the jawbone, potentially leading to an abscess, a painful condition that requires prompt treatment.
Tooth Loss
In severe cases, untreated cracks can weaken the tooth structure to the point where the tooth cannot be saved. Tooth loss can have significant implications for your oral health, affecting your bite, appearance, and overall dental function.
Chronic Pain
A cracked tooth can cause chronic pain, especially when chewing or when exposed to temperature changes. This pain can affect your quality of life and make eating and speaking difficult.
Conclusion
A cracked tooth or molar is a serious dental issue that requires prompt attention. Whether the crack is minor or severe, early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent further complications. By understanding the causes, symptoms, treatment options, and preventive measures, you can protect your teeth and maintain a healthy, pain-free smile.
Regular dental check-ups, good oral hygiene, and being mindful of your eating habits can go a long way in preventing cracked teeth and molars. If you suspect you have a cracked tooth, don’t hesitate to consult your dentist and take the necessary steps to preserve your dental health.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the danger of a cracked molar?
A cracked molar may cause pain and sensitivity on biting and eating. If the crack is very deep, it may cause swelling at the gum area of the cracked tooth.
How long can you go with a cracked molar?
If the crack is superficial and does not go into the pulp where the nerves are, there may not be much pain and sensitivity, and you can simply do a filling or a crown to protect the tooth. But if the crack is deep and involves the pulp, pain will set in very quickly and it’s very likely that swelling can also set in within a few days to a week.
What can be done about a cracked molar?
If it’s superficial and the crack line does not go into the pulp, a filling or even a crown to protect the tooth can be done. If the crack is deeper and involves the pulp, a root canal treatment might be needed to treat the pain before a crown is fabricated over the tooth. If the crack is so severe that the tooth fragments are moving and not stable or the crack has split the tooth completely, the tooth will need to be extracted. There are different options to replace the missing tooth subsequently, like implants or bridges.
What happens if a cracked tooth or a cracked molar is not fixed?
If the crack is superficial, there may be some sensitivity to biting and hot and cold foods. If the crack is deeper, bacteria may enter the pulp through the crack and cause an infection of the pulp, resulting in severe pain and possible swelling.
Is it okay to live with a cracked tooth?
If the crack is superficial and there are no symptoms like sensitivity, there is always the option to leave the cracked tooth alone if it does not interfere with daily activities like eating and speaking. If the crack is deeper and there are more symptoms, the pain will naturally worsen and a swelling might result, at which point you will need to seek dental help. Once treated, the cracked tooth is stable and you can go about your daily activities normally.
What happens when a molar breaks?
If the crack or break is superficial, a simple filling or a crown to cap and protect the tooth will suffice. If it is deeper and the pulp is involved, a root canal treatment might be needed prior to a crown being fabricated over the tooth. If it is so severe and the molar has completely split or there is very little tooth structure left, an extraction might be needed.
How long before a cracked tooth becomes infected?
If the crack is deep and involves the pulp and nerves, an infection will start to set in after some time, typically about one to two weeks from the time of the crack.
Is a cracked tooth or molar an emergency?
If the crack is deep and involves the pulp, pain and swelling may set in and cause severe discomfort, which makes it a dental emergency. But if the crack is superficial and does not involve the pulp, it is not an emergency, but dental consultation and treatment should be sought at the earliest opportunity, otherwise there is a chance that the crack may deepen and involve the pulp, which then worsens the condition.