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There are various types of tooth fractures. The treatment and outcome for your tooth depends on the type, location, and severity of the fracture.

Fractured cusp

When a cusp (the most emphasized part of the chewing surface) becomes weakened, we sometimes results in a fracture. A weakened cusp may break by itself or can be removed by the dentist. Usually when this happens, the pain disappears.

A fractured cusp rarely damages the pulp, so root canal treatment is most likely not necessary. Usually the tooth is restored by your dentist with a full crown.

Cracked tooth

This type of fracture extends vertically from the chewing surface of the tooth to the root. Sometimes the crack may extend to below the gum line, and in severe cases, to the root. A cracked tooth is not completely separates into two distinct segments. Because of the position of the crack, damage to the pulp is common. Because of this you need a root canal treatment is often to treat the injured pulp. Then your dentist will restore your tooth with a full crown to bind and protect the cracked tooth. A rapid diagnosis is important. Even with high magnification and special lighting, it is sometimes difficult to determine the extent of a crack. A cracked tooth that is not treated progressively worsen, eventually resulting in tooth loss. A rapid diagnosis and proper treatment are essential treatment to help save your teeth.

Broken tooth

Often, a broken tooth is the result of long-term progression of a cracked tooth. The broken tooth is identified by a crack with distinct segments which can be separated. A broken tooth can never be intact. However, the position and extent of the crack will determine whether any portion of the tooth can be saved.

In very rare instances, endodontic treatment and a crown or some other restoration by your dentist, you can use to help save a part of your tooth.

Vertical root fracture

Vertical root fractures are cracks that begin at the root of the tooth and extend toward the chewing surface. They often have minimal symptoms and signs and may therefore go unnoticed for a while. Vertical root fractures are discovered when the surrounding bone and gum are infected.

Treatment usually involves removal of the tooth. However, surgery is sometimes appropriate and part of the tooth can be saved by removing the fractured root.