We’ve all heard that the teeth are the strongest part of the body, but even our pearly whites are susceptible to damage and it’s often at the worst of times. We’re used to getting calls from worried patients at dinner parties or people about to go on vacation. But how serious is a chipped tooth? What should be done immediately? Will the tooth need a crown? What can be done in the future?
Teeth are made up primarily of two distinct components: The visible white hard outer enamel and the softer yellow dentin that makes up most of the middle and root of the tooth. Both the enamel and dentin are intricate structures that take years for the body to make. Once finished, the tooth, unlike most other parts of the body, can not grow in size or appreciably repair itself. The hard mineralized surface of the tooth makes it ideal for eating with, but also leaves it susceptible to both decay and… chipping.
What usually chips teeth?
Years of daily use. There are not many mechanical things in life as useful and as reliable as teeth; they work with modest maintenance day-in day-out. Yet over the course of many years, after many meals (and often many nights of grinding our teeth in our sleep) fractures can appear.
Oddly, for many people the teeth get worn most at night. Grinding your teeth in your sleep (bruxism) is extremely common and – as it happens often for extended periods of time – is a major cause of tooth wear and tear. A custom made night guard can protect your teeth significantly and help prevent sore jaws too.
How bad is it?
Fractures or cracks can come in many types or sizes:
Minor cracks – Also called “craze lines,” these are surface cracks. They are very common and typically don’t hurt. However, they can progress into a deeper, more visible and sensitive crack.
Cracked tooth – This type of fracture involves the whole tooth and can become very painful or sensitive.
Chips – Minor chips don’t always need treatment, and can sometimes be smoothed out. As long as it is small and cleansable, it can be left alone ok. Chips on front teeth can be repaired with composite resin and look practically invisible, but due to their location they are susceptible to further chips. Veneers are always an attractive, long-lasting option.
Broken cusp – Cusps can’t be replaced with a filling – they are under too much stress. A stronger restoration is usually needed such as an onlay or crown to encapsulate and support the tooth.
Serious breaks – These breaks go deep enough to expose the nerve. Depending on the case a root-canal-therapy may be needed before a crown is placed. Typically results are very aesthetically pleasing.
Split tooth – This means that the tooth has split vertically and is unrestorable.
Decay-induced break: This is where the tooth has been weakened by decay enough to crumble. By the time decay gets this bad considerable restorative work is required.
What should I do?
Most importantly, don’t panic. This is the 21st century: We have amazing anesthesia and can reconstruct a tooth beautifully. If you have the fractured part keep it in a plastic bag – it could be useful as a temporary! Call us and we’ll make time for you.
Share if you care! Please feel free to share this or any Dental Health Matters article and if you have any questions, please feel free to email me at Doodes@ParkBlvdDentistry.com. Who knows, maybe your question will be the subject of another edition!
© Paul Doodes DDS PhD. All rights reserved.
