Will a Cracked Tooth Repair Itself?

Will a cracked tooth repair itself the same way that our skin and bones heal?  Unfortunately, no.  Teeth can’t regenerate or heal themselves.  This has a lot to do with their composition and makeup.

Did you know:

• Teeth develop around the 6th week of pregnancy when the baby is in the womb.
• Teeth are not bones.
• Tooth enamel is made of calcium phosphate.

The tooth is made up of layers.  The outer layer is the tooth enamel.  The next layer is dentin.  These layers surround and protect the tooth’s pulp.  The pulp is soft and consists of living blood vessels, connective tissues, and large nerves.  The tooth enamel itself does not contain living tissue or blood vessels and this is why it can’t repair or regenerate.

What Causes a Cracked Tooth?

A cracked tooth can result from grinding your teeth, chewing on hard foods, an injury or just happen naturally as you age.

Symptoms of a Cracked Tooth

• Sensitive to hot or cold foods and drinks
• A sharp pain when biting or chewing food
• A throbbing pain and gum swelling

Treatments for a Cracked Tooth

Dental treatments for a cracked tooth depend on the extent of the damage.  X-rays and an exam will determine if the crack is mild or has reached a crucial part of the tooth’s root.

Typically, a cracked tooth with be treated with:

Filling or dental bonding

If the tooth has only a minor crack or fractured crusp, a tooth-colored resin is placed on the tooth to seal the enamel and prevent bacteria from entering the tooth pulp.

Root canal

If the crack extends to the root, chances are the tooth will be beyond repair. Tooth extraction is one option, but your dentist may recommend a root canal to preserve your natural tooth. In a root canal procedure, the damaged tooth root will be removed and replaced with a filling to prevent further infection.

A Crown

If the crack has weakened the tooth enamel, a dental crown can be fitted to protect the tooth. Crowns are a very reliable solution for major dental problems caused through accidents, diseases, or wear and tear.

Let Dr. Abeyta and her team in Albuquerque, NM restore the look and strength of your cracked tooth.

Dr. Abeyta and her team provide everything from bonding, crowns, bridges to treatment for TMJ, Tongue-tie and orofacial myofunctional disorders.  Call today to schedule your next dental appointment at (505)-293-7611 with a dentist who practices an integrative approach in creating a beautiful smile and a healthy functioning body.