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Incomplete
Fracture of a Tooth (Cracked Tooth)
Pain
associated with a cracked tooth often manifest itself similarly
to that of a lose or mobile tooth, without the mobility. Biting
down is painful but there is often no clinical evidence of decay
or damage. However, a dentist will generally run tests to detect
hairline fractures of the crown and/or the root of a tooth.
This condition is referred to as "Cracked Tooth Syndrome".
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Temporary
Treatment for a Cracked Tooth
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Follow
the suggestion used for a lose or mobile
tooth.
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Complete
Fracture of a Tooth
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There
are a number of systems used for the classification of tooth
fractures. Most are based upon how far the fracture extends
into the tooth structure. Prognosis of a fracture treatment
is dictated by whether the pulp was exposed by the fracture
and the extent of damage to the root and coronal portion
(the part covered by enamel) of the tooth.
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1. Complete
fracture of enamel only
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Fractures
of front teeth are most common among children. In most cases
when only the enamel is involved there is little cause for
immediate concern. While there maybe acute pain initially,
it usually subsides. The exception to this is when there is
an unseen fracture of the root or bone. Observe the edge of
the fracture, if it appears that the fracture is in the all
white enamel and there is no transition to the yellow of the
dentin, or to the pink to red color of the pulp (innermost
portion where the nerve and blood vessel terminate), the tooth
will probably be find. However, the tooth should also be checked
for movement particularly if it's an adult tooth. If mobility
exists there may be a root or bone fracture.
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Temporary
Treatment of an Enamel Fracture
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If
there is no exposure of the dentin or pulp chamber the sensitivity
associated with the trauma will generally subside. In many
cases a dentist will smooth out any jagged areas to prevent
damage to the tissue or perform a cosmetic procedure to restore
the appearance of the tooth. Little can be done at home other
than use of an analgesics for pain relief. A dentist should
be consulted immediately to rule out possible root or bone
damage.
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2. Complete
Fractures extending into the dentin
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If
the fracture of a tooth extends into the dentin, the tooth
can often become very sensitive to hot and cold even when
there is a substantial amount of dentin between the fracture
and innermost portion of the tooth the pulp. If only a small
amount of dentin remains, the possibility of bacteria reaching
the pulp is increased, and the tooth may die.
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Temporary Treatment of a Dentin
Fracture
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As
with fractures of the enamel, pain relieving analgesics may
be helpful until a dentist can be seen. Another suggestion
that may aid to reduce sensitivity if the fracture contour
will allow it, as with a fracture associated with a lost filling,
is to use of one of the over the counter temporary filling
materials, call us for more information.
1.
Dry the tooth thoroughly, place
the medication over the fractured area.
2.
Using a cotton gauze to separate the fractured area from the
opposing tooth, and preventing moisture contamination, bite
down gently.
This procedure may become difficult
to maintain after an hour. Do
not use these medications if there is swelling or throbbing
in the affected area, or if you are allergic to there components.
Contact your dentist immediately, and keep out of reach of
children.
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3.
Fractures extending into the pulp
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Fractures
involving the pulp (terminating area of the principle blood
vessel and nerve) are usually easily seen as red or bleeding
areas in the center of the tooth. These fractures can be extremely
painful, and the use of the aforementioned medications may
or may not be helpful. Consult with a dentist without delay,
saving the tooth is directly related to early diagnosis and
treatment.
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