Cracked Teeth Columbia MO
Cracked teeth demonstrate many types of symptoms, including pain when chewing, temperature sensitivities, or even the release of biting pressure. It is also common for tooth pain to come and go, making it difficult to diagnose the cause of discomfort.
Chewing can cause movement of the cracked pieces of your tooth, and the pulp within the tooth becomes irritated. At the same time, when biting pressure is released, the crack can close quickly, resulting in sharp pain. Eventually, the pulp will become damaged and tooth will consistently hurt, even when you are not chewing. It is possible that cracks can lead to infection of the pulp tissue, which can spread to the bone and gum surrounding the problematic tooth.
Are you ready to smile with confidence again?
Request an appointment online or call our Columbia office today!
Book Online Call Today
Types of Cracks
Craze lines
These are tiny cracks that only affect the outer enamel of the tooth. These cracks are more common in adults. These types of cracks are superficial and are usually of no concern.
Fractured Cusp
When a cusp becomes weakened, a fracture may result. The cusp may break off or be removed by a dentist. A fractured cusp rarely damages the pulp, so root canal is not necessary. Your dentist will usually restore the tooth with a full crown.
Treatable Cracked Tooth
This type of crack extends from the chewing surface of the tooth and vertically migrates towards the root. In some cases, the crack may extend below the gum line. It is possible for the crack to extend further into the root. Damage to the pulp is commonplace. In this case, root canal treatment is usually necessary. A cracked tooth that is not treated will worsen, resulting in the loss of the tooth. Therefore, early detection is essential.
Split Tooth
A split tooth is usually the result of an untreated cracked tooth. It can be identified by a crack with distinct segments. This type of tooth can never be saved intact. Yet, the position and extent of the problem will dictate whether any portion of the tooth can be saved. Sometimes, endodontic retreatment by the doctors and restoration by your dentist can be used to save a portion of the tooth.
Vertical Root Fracture
A vertical root fracture begins at the root and extends towards the chewing surface of the tooth. Unfortunately, they show minimal symptoms and may go unnoticed. Treatment involves endodontic surgery if a portion of the tooth can be saved by removal of the fractured root. Otherwise, the tooth will have to be extracted.
Warren A. Lawson, DDS MSD
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
High level of professionalism shown by all staff.
- George R
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Thorough, professional, kind and compassionate care.
- Sara R
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I was referred to Dr. Lawson for a root canal consultation due to an extremely painful cracked tooth. They were able to see me very promptly. I really appreciated the great care and you just can't beat that front desk staff! Highly recommend.
- Kelly J
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Was concerned about seeing another DDS.y worries were laid to rest the minute I opened the door. Very nice people.
- cynthia L
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Wonderful experience and an honest evaluation of options. Great staff!
- Lloyd M
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I really loved the friendly treatment of everyone in the office! And I loved how Dr. Lawson was very informative and gave me the time.
- Karen L
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Complete trust in Dr. Lawson and the staff. Knowledgeable, thorough explanations, and kind! I would recommend without hesitation!
- Rob D
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
staff made me feel at home
- daniel w
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Everyone at this office is super friendly, caring and competent. I would definitely recommend Dr. Lawson to anyone who needs a root canal or an evaluation for something going on with teeth. The staff is super helpful and nice. I can't say enough good things about everyone. Thank you for being there for me.
- Judith O
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
You have a very professional and extraordinarily patient friendly staff. Kudos.
- carl f
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Everyone was very professioal and friendly. I felt quite at ease. Dr. Lawson took time for a thorough examine and fully answered all my questions. I was pleased to see all the measures in place for everyone's safety, including mine, during this covid crisis.
- Pat W
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Was great
- Jeffrey McBride A
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
A very comfortable, welcoming place. No one wants to go to a dental specialist (ugh) but they were gracious, kind and made the experience a very good one for me. I would most certainly recommend this office to anyone who needs a dental specialist.
- Denise M