It’s a situation many of us dread: you’re enjoying a meal or perhaps snacking on something crunchy when you suddenly feel an unexpected and disturbing crunch. You’ve got a cracked tooth. Although the human tooth structure is remarkably durable, it’s not invincible. Despite being the hardest substance in the human body, tooth enamel can still succumb to cracks. If you find yourself in such a predicament, the solution may lie in a crown for cracked tooth.
Understanding the Cracked Tooth Phenomenon
A cracked tooth can be a source of severe discomfort, not to mention the potential complications if left untreated.
This crack extends from the tooth’s chewing surface downwards towards the root. Sometimes, it’s obvious, as the cracked tooth may be causing pain or may even lead to visible damage. However, some small cracks can be deceivingly subtle, occasionally causing discomfort.
Cracked teeth can be caused by various reasons, such as biting on hard foods, trauma, grinding, or even sudden temperature changes from consuming hot and cold food or beverages.
The Importance of Early Detection and Intervention
Allowing a cracked tooth to go untreated can lead to more severe issues. Beyond the immediate discomfort, there’s a risk of the crack extending further. A crack extending beyond the gum line can lead to a vertical root fracture. This is more complicated to treat and can sometimes result in tooth loss.
How Dental Crowns Can Help
When faced with the distressing discovery of a cracked tooth, it’s natural to feel a sense of panic or alarm. But, thanks to advances in modern dentistry, a solution lies at hand that has proven its mettle time and again: dental crowns. Let’s delve deeper into how these innovative prosthetics can provide relief and restore the integrity of a damaged tooth.
Restoration of Function and Appearance
A cracked tooth, aside from the obvious aesthetic concerns, can significantly impair functionality. It might affect the way you bite, chew, or even speak. Dental crowns, custom-made to fit over the affected tooth, ensure that you regain the tooth’s natural function. Moreover, with materials like tooth-coloured resin now in use, these crowns can match the shade of your other teeth, guaranteeing a seamless blend with the rest of your dental lineup.
Protective Shield for Vulnerable Teeth
Cracked teeth are more than just unsightly; they’re vulnerable. The crack, especially deep or wide, can expose the inner tooth sections to potential bacterial invasion, leading to infections or further decay. By enveloping the cracked tooth, a dental crown acts as a formidable shield, preventing contaminants from reaching the sensitive inner layers of the tooth.
Prevention of Further Damage
The fragility of a cracked tooth cannot be understated. Even minor pressures from daily activities, like biting an apple or chewing gum, can exacerbate the crack. This is where the robustness of dental crowns comes into play. Acting as a support structure, they distribute biting forces evenly across the tooth, safeguarding against further damage or breakage.
Comfort and Pain Relief
For many, a cracked tooth is synonymous with discomfort or sharp pain, especially when consuming hot or cold foods. This discomfort stems from the crack, potentially exposing the tooth’s nerve endings. Dental crowns, in encapsulating the damaged area, provide a barrier between the exposed tooth and external elements, greatly reducing sensitivity and resultant pain.
Longevity and Durability
While dental crowns are an investment, they’re a long-term one. Made from durable materials, whether ceramic, porcelain fused to metal, or composite resin, these crowns are created to withstand the rigours of daily life. They can serve patients faithfully for many years with proper upkeep and maintenance, making them a cost-effective solution in the long run.
Enhancing Overall Oral Health
A cracked tooth, if not addressed promptly, can lead to a cascade of dental issues, including misalignment, bite problems, and even gum disease in some cases. By opting for a dental crown, you’re not only rectifying the immediate issue but also ensuring your oral cavity’s overall health and harmony.
In summation, dental crowns, while often viewed through the narrow lens of aesthetic restoration, offer many benefits that transcend mere looks. They’re a testament to how modern dentistry marries form with function, providing patients with a holistic solution to the often vexing problem of cracked teeth. If you find yourself grappling with a damaged tooth, it might be worthwhile to chat with your dentist about the potential benefits a dental crown might offer.
The Procedure: What to Expect
After assessing the extent of the damage, your dentist may suggest a tooth crown as the ideal course of action. Here’s a brief overview of what the procedure involves:
Preparation: The dentist will first prepare the tooth, removing decay and reshaping it so the crown fits seamlessly.
Impression: An impression of the tooth is taken digitally or with a mould to custom-make the crown.
Temporary Crown: A temporary crown is often placed to protect the tooth while the permanent one is crafted.
Crown Placement: Once ready, the permanent dental crown is cemented, restoring the natural tooth’s shape and function.
Caring for Your Dental Crown
Dental crowns are curated to be durable and long-lasting. However, like a natural tooth, they’re not impervious to damage. It’s not uncommon to hear of a chipped or broken crown. Regular check-ups and avoiding behaviours that can lead to damage are crucial, such as chewing on ice or hard candies.
Alternatives and Considerations
While dental crowns are an ideal solution for many, they may only be right for some. For minor cracks, a tooth-coloured or composite resin can be directly applied and sculpted to the natural tooth, which can be a more conservative approach. Treatments like root canal treatment or even a dental implant might be recommended in cases where the damage is extensive, or the tooth may be compromised.
Conclusion
A cracked tooth isn’t just about aesthetics. Left unchecked, it can cause severe dental complications. Dental crowns offer an effective solution, restoring both function and appearance. However, like any medical decision, it’s essential to consult with a trusted dentist who can guide you through your options and recommend the best course of action.
Ready to restore that radiant smile? Don’t let a cracked tooth keep you from shining. Contact us today at (08) 7078 8263. Your path to dental excellence awaits!
References:
https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/dental-crowns
https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/dental-crown-procedure