cracked teeth

Cracked Teeth Treatment for HH Hancock III

HH Hancock III is an experienced endodontist specializing in treating cracked teeth. Cracked teeth can cause severe pain and discomfort, making eating, drinking, or speaking difficult. Fortunately, with the proper treatment, Dr. Hancock can restore cracked teeth to their original strength and function. Our practice offers a range of treatments to fix cracked teeth, helping you get back to your everyday life as soon as possible.

What is a cracked tooth?

A cracked tooth is a dental condition that occurs when a tooth is cracked, chipped, or broken. It can be caused by several factors, including biting hard objects, grinding teeth, or traumatic injury to the face or mouth. The symptoms of a cracked tooth vary depending on the severity but typically include pain when biting or chewing, sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, or swelling 

of the gums around the affected tooth. 

The following represent the five most common types of cracked teeth that endodontists encounter:

  • – craze lines – tiny cracks on the surface of the tooth
  • – fractured cusps – chip or crack on the chewing surface
  • – cracks that extend through the crown of the tooth and reach the gum line 
  • – split tooth
  • – vertical root fractures – crack that goes all the way to the root of the tooth

How can an endodontist help fix a cracked tooth?

As an endodontist, Dr. HH Hancock III specializes in treating the inside of the tooth, including the pulp, nerves, and blood vessels. When a tooth is cracked, the pulp and nerves inside the tooth may become damaged, causing severe pain and sensitivity. In some cases, a cracked tooth may require a root canal procedure to remove the damaged tissue and restore strength and function to save the tooth. In other cases, the tooth may need to be extracted and replaced with a dental implant or bridge.

What are the treatments for a cracked tooth?

The treatment for a cracked tooth depends on the severity and location of the crack. Often, Dr. Hancock can treat a cracked tooth with a dental filling or crown to restore the tooth’s strength and prevent further damage. If the crack is severe and the tooth’s pulp and nerves are damaged, a root canal treatment plan may be required to remove the damaged tissue and restore the tooth’s function.

Tooth extraction is typically a last resort option when the tooth cannot be saved or when it is causing severe pain or discomfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can a cracked tooth heal on its own?

A: No, a cracked tooth can worsen over time without proper treatment and cause severe pain and discomfort.

Q: Can a cracked tooth be prevented?

A: Yes, there are several ways to prevent a cracked tooth, including avoiding hard or crunchy foods, wearing a mouthguard when playing sports, and practicing good oral hygiene.

Q: Is a root canal painful?

A: No, a root canal procedure is not typically painful. It is designed to relieve pain and discomfort caused by a damaged tooth’s pulp and nerves.

Q: How long does it take to recover from a root canal?

A: The recovery time after a root canal procedure varies depending on the patient’s case. Most patients can return to their normal activities within a few days.

Q: Can a cracked tooth be fixed with a filling?

A: Sometimes, it can be fixed with a dental filling. However, you may require more extensive treatment if the crack is severe or the tooth’s pulp and nerves are damaged.

Visit HH Hancock for Cracked Teeth Treatment

Suppose you are experiencing a dental emergency in Raleigh, North Carolina. In that case, seeking treatment as soon as possible is essential. Delaying treatment can cause the condition to worsen, leading to more pain, discomfort, and potential complications. 

Our endodontic emergency dentistry services are available for existing and new patients, and we offer flexible scheduling to accommodate your needs. We use the latest technology and techniques to provide prompt and accurate diagnoses and effective treatments, ensuring you receive the best care for your dental emergency.

If you are experiencing pain or discomfort due to cracked teeth in Raleigh, don’t hesitate to contact HH Hancock III. At our practice, we are here to provide fast, effective, and compassionate care when you need it most.