Cracked Teeth in Baulkham Hills, NSW
Cracked teeth may or may not present painful symptoms, which is why routine check-ups and diagnostic x-rays are an essential part of preventive dentistry. Identifying cracks and other conditions early typically makes them less costly and less complicated to treat.
Why Do Teeth Get Cracks?
Cracked teeth syndrome is a common condition exacerbated by large fillings or a bruxism (teeth grinding) habit, which typically occurs during sleep. While it is more common for cracked teeth syndrome to occur as part of the ageing process because of years of the tooth absorbing force, a cracked tooth can happen at any age.
Untreated Bruxism
If you suspect that you grind your teeth and choose not to wear a protective night guard, your teeth can sustain excessive damage and wear. Cracked teeth are only one aspect of the premature ageing of the teeth. Wear and shortened teeth can also occur.
Discomfort in Cracked Teeth
You may feel a sharp pain when chewing with a cracked tooth, especially when eating something that works its way into the fissures of the teeth. This is an indication that the tooth may split and require extraction.
How We Treat Cracked Teeth
Small cracks are typically easier to treat. Splitting of the enamel creates tiny micro-fractures that allow bacteria to enter the tooth. If this occurs, the tooth may develop an infection and require root canal treatment.
Bonded composite fillings are generally not enough to repair cracked teeth because they are designed to seal a tooth rather than to strengthen it.
When a crack develops in the enamel of the teeth, the structure becomes compromised. Dr Martina Lavery will often recommend a dental crown, sometimes called a cap, to cover and reinforce the tooth. We offer a number of options, the most popular of which is porcelain. Tooth-coloured porcelain is durable and will blend in with your smile. Dr Lavery takes great care to match your natural tooth shade.
We will always make sure we anaesthetise the tooth prior to preparing it for a dental crown. Dr Lavery will then remove any damaged tooth structure and create space for the crown before taking an impression to send to our local dental lab.
We work closely with our technicians to design a restoration that matches your smile and fits comfortably with your bite. A temporary crown will protect your tooth until your final restoration arrives. Dr Lavery will then bond it permanently to your tooth.
We Welcome Your Questions
If you have questions regarding the treatment options for cracked teeth, please contact us to arrange a visit. Our Hills District dental clinic team will always present all treatment options available and help you make an informed choice for your oral health. We also service Northmead, Baulkham Hills, and Bella Vista areas.