Cracked Teeth Treatment in Saint Joseph MO
What are the Symptoms of Cracked Teeth?
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.
What Happens if I Don’t Treat my Cracked Teeth?
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.
What are the Types of Cracks in Teeth?
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 the removal of the fractured root. Otherwise, the tooth will have to be extracted.
Northwest Endodontics
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Great staff, got me right in with my fractured tooth.
- Jamie R
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I went in for a root canal, a first, and I was really nervous/anxious. The atmosphere was welcoming, and the staff were especially kind. Dr. Walker was very friendly, very personable. Once he started, he asked me often if I was in pain. The procedure lasted about 20 minutes, and it was 100% pain free. I would highly recommend Dr. Walker and his team!
- Val W
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I appreciate that you were able to work me into your schedule so quickly! The root canal went so smoothly with little to no pain, I would highly recommend this clinic to anyone!
- Tim P
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Fast friendly no pain.
- Sara rothermich
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I fell asleep during my root canal. I never would have thought that was even remotely possible to do during a root canal. I never felt a thing! Perfect experience.
- Michael B
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
After having been a General Dentist for 38 years, I thought I had seen everything Dentistry had to offer. Recently, I experienced a painless, quick, and caring molar root canal by Dr. Walker. This office is simply THE BEST! Organized, efficient,and very low key.
- Tom R
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
For having a root canal procedure the process was painless. Dr. Walker is the only one I would let perform a root canal on me!
- Marcia K
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I have had lots of dental work and dread going to the dentist because it is always painful. I will say, other than shots which are always horrible as far as I'm concerned, the root canal procedure was basically painless and quicker than any other root canals I've had in the past. Other than a little soreness after the root canal, which is to be expected, I have not had any problems.
- Lori M
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
great experience for a root canal
- William C
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Very, very friendly staff and Dr Walker too.
- Carolyn T
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Dr. Walker was very gentle, easing my anxiousness (who likes a root canal?). The procedure was quick and painless. I really appreciate their courtesy and kindness.
- Randi S
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Dr. Walker did amazing, he was very friendly and helped me ease my fear of the dentist. I felt nothing at all, so I am very happy with the service. Everyone here was very nice and helpful!
- kayla w
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I would recommend this dentist to anyone who can make it, who is in need of help. The most relaxing and painless dental experience I have ever had!
- Jadon W
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I am a nervous wreck with ALL things dental, and was shaking so bad when I entered the office. I was also in so much pain. The staff and Dr. Walker calmed me down and talked me through all options and procedures. It was over before I knew it, and painless. It was a great experience.
- Kelli H
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
whole staff made me feel real comfortable, whole process was amazing, thank you
- Roger H
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I never had to waiting and told me everything that they were going to be doing. Made sure I was comfortable.
- Jaunita S
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
very good
- david l
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
very friendly professional staff
- Tracy k
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Brian Damewood was in excruciating pain they were able to get him in the same day and took care of him and he came home pain free, not even any need for tylenol or ibuprofen... the staff are so friendly and knowledgeable and Ryan Walker does wonders!! Thanks so much!!!
- Brian D
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Great experience.
- Stacie P