Everything You Need to Know About Tooth Fractures
Dental fractures are not a rarity. In fact, they are a problem that affects people of all ages. However, they are more common in patients aged 25 and above. The problem with dental fractures is that they are quite hard to diagnose. Fortunately, once diagnosed, they are typically quite easy to treat. In this video, we tell you about the different types of dental fractures.
The Four Different Types of Dental Fractures
Oblique Supragingival Fracture
The Oblique Supragingival fracture occurs above the gums and happens when people bite with too much force. It is difficult to diagnose cases of Oblique Supragingival fracture as the pain caused by this fracture recedes quite quickly, i.e. as soon as the broken part of the tooth gets dismantled. It is normal for the person affected by this fracture to experience some soreness. However, the pain is almost negligible. Fortunately, Oblique Supragingival fractures are easy to repair. The only thing that people must know is that when the affected part is too big, your dentist may recommend putting a crown to minimize the possibility of more such fractures happening in the future.
Oblique Subgingival Fracture
The Oblique Subgingival fracture affects the area underneath the gum line. The problem with this kind of fracture is that it causes terrible pain and the pain does not go away until one gets the fractured tooth extracted. In cases of Oblique Subgingival fracture, the broken tooth stays stuck inside the socket, which in turn, causes pain. Fortunately, the Oblique Subgingival fracture does not affect the nerves. However, one may need to undergo root canal therapy to get the tooth treated. More importantly, in this type of tooth fracture, if the fracture is located well below the gum line, saving the tooth can become nearly impossible.
Oblique Root Fracture
The Oblique Root Fracture usually affects the area underneath the gum and the bone. In case the fracture is located close to the crown, it can prove to be extremely fatal. Further, when an oblique root fracture is located close to the crown of the tooth, saving the tooth becomes almost impossible as the fracture will inevitably cause the bone to become abscessed.
Vertical Apical Root Fracture
The type of fracture is actually the most painful of all fractures. It affects the root of the teeth and creates unnecessary and unbearable pressure on the bone, which is what makes this type of pressure so painful. The pain does not go even when one gets the root canal removed. The only way to deal with vertical apical root fracture is to get a root canal done. During the root canal, your dentist will extract the dead part, which will soften the pain.
The Final Word
Dental fractures are not uncommon and they are mostly always painful. More importantly, if left untreated, they can become serious and life-threatening. Thus, if you are experiencing tooth pain or soreness, do not delay going to your dentist. The only way to get a tooth fracture diagnosed is to see your dentist. Once your dentist has figured out the type of fracture you are dealing with, they will easily be able to fix the problem.
For more information regarding your dental health, please give Dr. Apsey of Smile Brightly Dental a call today! We are located in Warren, MI and we can be reached at 586-573-7700!