Learn More About Chipped or Cracked Tooth

Also called a fractured tooth, a chipped or cracked tooth syndrome (CTS) is a condition in which a tooth breaks or cracks. This can happen due to an injury, chewing on hard food, or simply due to wear and tear.

West Perth Dental Centre can help by providing crowns. These are artificial caps that cover the damaged tooth to protect it and make it look normal again. We can also use resin material to perform bonding and rebuild your tooth.

Please call us for a consultation to learn more and to see what treatment works for your condition.

Reasons Why You Need to Address Chipped or Cracked Tooth

As soon as you notice a chipped or cracked tooth, you should schedule an appointment with your dentist. They will assess the severity of the chip or crack and create a treatment plan that is unique to you.

Here are the reasons why you should address the problem right away:

Prevent further damage to your tooth

If left unchecked, a chipped or cracked tooth can worsen and lead to more severe issues. For instance, a cracked tooth can cause the pulp to become infected.

Reduce pain and discomfort

The tooth's nerve endings are exposed when cracked or chipped, which can cause pain and discomfort. This usually happens when eating or drinking something hot or cold.

Restore your tooth's appearance and function

This is especially important if the chip or crack affects the way you eat or speak. Your dentist can address this, so your tooth looks and functions normally again.

To avoid complications, such as infection

An undetected crack in your tooth may allow bacteria to enter the enamel and cause an infection. This results in swelling, pain, discomfort, and more costly treatments.

What You Need to Know About Chipped or Cracked Teeth

Chipped or cracked teeth require prompt attention to avoid further complications. These issues can result from an injury, biting hard objects, or wear over time. Identifying the type of damage, recognising symptoms, and seeking appropriate treatments are crucial for restoring the tooth’s appearance and functionality. Preventive care can also help avoid future incidents.

Types of Chips and Cracks

Chips and cracks in teeth can vary in severity, from minor enamel fractures to deeper breaks affecting the tooth’s structure. Identifying the type of damage helps in choosing the most appropriate treatment method.

Signs and Symptoms

Common signs of a chipped or cracked tooth include pain when biting, sensitivity to hot and cold, and visible damage. Early detection of these symptoms is critical to preventing further deterioration and more complex dental issues.

Dental Treatments

Bonding, crowns, and veneers are treatment options for chipped or cracked teeth. The choice of treatment depends on the extent of the damage. Each treatment effectively restores the tooth’s function and appearance.

Preventive Care

Preventive care includes avoiding hard foods, wearing mouthguards during sports, and addressing teeth grinding. Regular dental check-ups help monitor and maintain the health of your teeth, reducing the risk of chips and cracks.