You may not have known of the word hairline tooth fracture, but it may be an already common disorder. Have you ever felt a sharp pain that fades quickly when you bit something down? It is one of the most general dental issues. Smiles on Queen Family Dentistry in Bolton is here to highlight all its causes, symptoms, and treatments.
Hairline Tooth Fracture
A slight crack on the tooth is considered a hairline tooth fracture. Various types of cracks can occur on the tooth. Including:
- Craze lines: These are tiny cracks that frequently present on the teeth’s enamel. There is no need to look for some kind of medication as they don’t cause any discomfort.
- Vertical Splits: This is a more complex crack in contrast to craze lines as it goes up and down. You can save the tooth from extraction because it may not get into the gum line.
- Split Tooth: when the tooth crack has separated the tooth into two parts, it is known as the split tooth. The split tooth is often wide and the tooth usually needs to be removed.
- Fractured Cusps: these are typically detected around dental fillings. These may not hit the pulp of the tooth, and thus have little to no discomfort.
A Few Causes of Hairline Tooth Fractures
You may have tiny cracks on your teeth because:
- Chewing on hard foods or objects
- Bad habits like teeth grinding and jaw clenching
- Hot or cold foods
- An injury that involves a blow to the mouth such as a fall or sports accident
- Large fillings that weaken the tooth structure
- Old age: Teeth are more vulnerable to cracking after the age of 50
Signs of a Hairline Tooth Fracture
Check for the signs below if you think that you may have a hairline tooth fracture:
- Inconsistent Pain: It could happen when you chew or bite food.
- When you eat any cold or hot food, you feel teeth Sensitivity.
- Painful Swollen gums
How to Treat Hairline Tooth Fracture?
The best treatment approach would depend on the location, the size, and the length of the crack that has extended to the gum line. The crack can be filled by bonding. A crown that fits and caps the damaged tooth can also be recommended by dentists. When the crack has spread into the pulp, a root canal is needed or the tooth may have to be removed.
