A break or crack in the crown or root of a tooth. Usually caused by an accident or fall, a dental fracture may involve only the enamel on the surface of the tooth, or it may affect the inner structures, such as the dentin and pulp. Premolars and repaired molars are vulnerable to vertical fractures, which extend through the crown to the root. Teeth that have received root canal treatment and crowns supported by posts may also be more prone to vertical fractures. These fractures can be caused by trauma caused by excessive pressure when biting. Fractures in the teeth may be clearly visible, or they may not be detectable, even with X rays. The only symptom may be pain when chewing. These fractures may be treated with composite bonding or veneers. When part or all of a tooth or teeth is fractured, the teeth may need fillings, crowns, or implants. If the fracture is very severe or if the tooth splits tooth extraction may be necessary.
A tooth fracture typically occurs due to falling onto a solid surface or getting struck in the mouth with a hard object. Such fractures can affect the crown or the root of the tooth, and in some cases, both.
Enamel fractures can typically be fixed through a process called bonding. If the damage is severe, a replacement crown may be necessary. When the pulp of the tooth suffers damage, a procedure known as a pulpotomy, which involves the removal of a portion of the pulp, may be carried out. If there is a fracture in the root of the tooth, there are several treatment options available. These include splinting, root canal treatment, or in more extreme cases, extraction of the tooth.