Procedures

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When a cusp (the pointed part of the chewing surface) becomes weakened, a fracture sometimes results. The weakened cusp may break off by itself or may have to be removed by the dentist. When this happens, the pain will usually be relieved. Your endodontist will determine the appropriate course of treatment. The tooth will usually be restored by your dentist with a full crown.

This crack extends from the chewing surface of the tooth vertically towards the root. A cracked tooth is not completely separated into two distinct segments. Because of the position of the crack, damage to the pulp is common and root canal treatment is frequently needed to treat the injured pulp. Your dentist will then restore your tooth with a full crown to bind and protect the cracked tooth. At times, the crack may extend below the gum line, requiring extraction. Even with high magnification and special lighting, it is sometimes difficult to determine the extent of a crack. A cracked tooth that is not treated will progressively worsen, eventually resulting in the loss of the tooth. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential in saving these teeth.

A split tooth is often the result of the long term progression of a cracked tooth. The split tooth is identified by a crack in which the distinct segments of the tooth can be separated from one another. A split tooth can rarely be saved; however, the position and extent of the crack will determine the appropriate treatment. Your endodontist will review your treatment options.

Vertical root fractures are cracks that begin in the root of the tooth and extend toward the chewing surface. They often show minimal signs and symptoms and may therefore go unnoticed for some time. Vertical root fractures are often discovered when the surrounding bone and gum become infected. Treatment usually involves extraction of the tooth; however, endodontic surgery is sometimes appropriate if a portion of the tooth can be saved by removal of the fractured root.