A dental root fracture refers to a break in a tooth that extends toward the root of the tooth. There are many different potential causes of a dental root fracture. Identifying the cause and type of dental root fracture is important to ensure the best treatment possible is administered.
The causes of a dental root fracture include damage caused by a nasty fall, a blow to the mouth during a sports activity, bruxism, poor oral hygiene, and more. This review takes a detailed look at the causes of dental root fractures, the different types, and how an endodontist can treat them.
There are different layers of a tooth. Understanding the layers can help understand dental root fractures as a whole. In simplest terms, the three primary layers of teeth are:
The enamel is the visible part of teeth. Enamel is strong, but it is vulnerable to damage from poor oral hygiene or severe dental trauma. Dentin is the underlying layer beneath the visible enamel. Lastly, dental pulp is at the center of the tooth and contains nerves and blood vessels.
Dental root fractures are most commonly the result of sudden trauma. This can occur from a nasty fall, during a sporting event or car accident, and in various other ways. It is important to take precautions to reduce the risk of a dental root fracture.
One of the first things endodontists want to know is what type of dental root fracture the patient has; each one is treated in a unique way. Some of the more common types of dental root fractures are:
To determine the type and severity of the fracture, the endodontist may order dental X-rays and conduct an oral examination.
The treatment options for a dental root fracture depend on the severity. For more severe fractures that damage the dental pulp, endodontists recommend root canal therapy. This procedure involves removing the damaged portion of the tooth root and filling it. A crown is placed to restore the strength and appearance of the tooth.
The goal is to save the tooth from being lost, and endodontists can very often do just that. The results of root canal therapy and similar procedures used to treat dental root fractures can last well beyond a decade.
Here at our endodontic practice, we help our patients restore the health and appearance of teeth that are damaged by dental root fractures, among other potential concerns that could put the long-term health of teeth in jeopardy. If you have a tooth fracture or similar concern, then call our team today to arrange a convenient visit.
Request an appointment here: https://www.sheats-endo.com or call Sheats Endodontic Group at (615) 526-2495 for an appointment in our Nashville office.
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