Cracked teeth in Sylmar, California, are a common dental issue that can cause discomfort, compromise your oral health and affect the appearance of your smile. Whether the damage results from biting down on something hard, an injury or natural wear and tear over time, a cracked tooth should be evaluated and treated promptly. Dr. Simon Imanuel, Dr. Shervin Akhamzadeh and Dr. Amir Mostaghni offers personalized care to identify the type of crack and provide the appropriate treatment to restore the health and function of your smile.
Recognizing & Diagnosing Cracked Teeth
Cracked teeth often produce symptoms such as pain while chewing, sudden sensitivity to hot or cold foods, or sharp discomfort when biting down. However, symptoms may come and go, making diagnosis challenging without a thorough dental exam. Our dentists will use digital imaging and a clinical evaluation to determine the extent and type of the crack.
Types of Cracked Teeth & Their Treatments
- Craze Lines
These are superficial cracks that appear in the outer enamel layer. While they may be visible, especially on the front teeth, they are usually harmless and rarely cause discomfort. Treatment is not typically necessary unless you are seeking cosmetic improvements, which may involve polishing or minor bonding. - Fractured Cusps
A fractured cusp occurs when a piece of a tooth’s chewing surface breaks off, often around a dental filling. These fractures do not typically damage the pulp of the tooth, but a crown is usually recommended to protect the remaining structure and restore functionality. - Cracked Tooth
This type of crack begins at the chewing surface and can extend toward or into the root. Early treatment is essential to prevent the crack from spreading. If the pulp is affected, root canal therapy may be needed, followed by a crown to stabilize the tooth. Without treatment, the crack can progress into a split tooth. - Split Tooth
A split tooth is usually the result of a long-standing cracked tooth that has worsened. The tooth separates into distinct segments and may not be salvageable. Depending on the extent of the damage, the tooth may need to be extracted. In select cases, a portion of the tooth may be saved using endodontic treatment. - Vertical Root Fracture
These cracks start in the root and move toward the tooth’s surface. They are often difficult to detect until surrounding tissue becomes inflamed or infected. Extraction is usually necessary, although surgical options may be explored in certain cases.
Protecting Your Teeth From Future Cracks
After treatment, preventive measures such as wearing a night guard, avoiding hard foods and maintaining good oral hygiene can help prevent future cracks. Routine dental checkups allow us to monitor the integrity of your teeth and address any issues early.
To learn more about your options for treating cracked teeth in Sylmar, California, and schedule an appointment with our dentists, please contact Kings Family Dental Group at 818-364-9444. We are committed to helping you regain comfort and confidence in your smile.