Like any part of the body, your teeth will start to show signs of wear and tear over the years. Sometimes that can come in the form of a dental root fracture. Root fractures occur when a crack in the tooth reaches into the deepest layers of the tooth. They may happen in any direction and generally fall into two categories: vertical and oblique fractures.
If you suspect you may have a root fracture, do not wait to see the dentist. Treatment is available for dental root fractures at Smile Solutions in Pittsburg and the surrounding area. To learn more about the types of dental root fractures and the various treatments we provide, call us at 620-317-0286Â to schedule a consultation.
Layers Of The Teeth
Teeth consist of several layers and include four types of tissues. Enamel, dentin, and cementum make up the hard tissues. The pulp, which contains the nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissues, is soft tissue.
The part of the tooth that is visible in the mouth is called the crown. The crown consists of a hard outer shell called enamel. The tooth root spreads down from the crown into the gum line and jawbone, holding your tooth in place.
The second layer is called the dentin, which contains the pulp chamber at the tooth center. Extending down from the pulp chamber and into the jawbone is the root canal, a passageway for nerves and blood vessels. When root fractures extend this far, it is important to see a dentist for treatment.
- Teeth consist of several layers and include four types of tissues.
Root Fracture Types
Root fractures occur when the crack involves the dentin, cementum, and pulp. They typically separate into two types—oblique and vertical. A vertical root fracture involves the entire length of the tooth or just a section of it. An oblique root fracture occurs when the crack runs along the tooth length. Vertical and oblique root fractures require different treatment approaches with varying levels of success.
A fracture that goes deep into the layers of the tooth can affect the health of the entire tooth and even the ones surrounding it. A root fracture exposes the inner layers of the tooth to bacteria, leading to an infection. An untreated infection can lead to extreme discomfort while chewing and sensitivity to hot and cold foods.
- Root fractures are when the crack involves the dentin, cementum, and pulp.
Oblique Fractures
Subgingival Fractures
Oblique subgingival fractures extend below the gum line. The severity of the fracture depends on how far it has gone past the gum line. These fractures are usually painful as the fractured tooth usually remains in the gums after it breaks off. However, patients may have a subgingival fracture for years before feeling any pain.
Supragingival Fractures
This type of oblique fracture only affects the tooth’s crown and does not extend below the gum line. Usually, a supragingival fracture results in the affected part of the tooth breaking off. Patients typically experience little pain as the nerves and blood vessels of the pulp remain intact and undamaged. Although this fracture may not cause immediate pain, it can lead to infection or pain in the future without treatment.
Root Fractures
Oblique root fractures do not usually affect the surface of the tooth at all. The damage occurs below the gum line, particularly under the bone. While this classification of fracture is not visible, it is very painful. Patients with oblique root fractures may require root canal treatment or extraction, depending on how close the fracture is to the tooth.
- Oblique subgingival fractures extend below the gum line.
Vertical Fractures
Apical Fractures
Vertical apical fractures occur at the apex or tip of the tooth root. Many patients with vertical apical fractures ask for extraction because of the severe pain it causes. The severe pain is a result of tooth fragments placing pressure on the bone. Root canal therapy can help alleviate the pain, but in some cases may require tooth extraction. Patients can discuss the best treatment option with our dentist.
Furcation Fractures
When the roots of a tooth separate, a vertical furcation fracture occurs. This type of fracture almost always affects the tooth’s nerves. Patients affected by this fracture experience pain and difficulty with simple tasks like eating and speaking. Root canal therapy and a crown can usually save teeth affected by vertical furcation fractures, as the tooth does not generally split completely.
Root Fractures
A vertical root fracture happens when part of the tooth root breaks off. This type of damage is not common and usually occurs in teeth with endodontic treatment, like root canal therapy. An apicoectomy may save the tooth if the vertical root fracture is short. Extraction is usually the common treatment; however, various studies have attempted to reunite fractured roots with varying success rates.
- Vertical apical fractures occur at the apex or tip of the tooth root.
Frequently Asked Questions
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By visiting us as soon as possible, our team can help get you the professional treatment you need. Instead of waiting around and allowing the symptoms to get worse, we can provide you with treatment options.
Endodontic Terminology
Cementum is that bone-like tissue that forms the outer surface of the root of the tooth.
Dental pulp is the innermost layer of the tooth with connective tissue that contains blood vessels and nerve tissue.
Dentin is the inner layer of the tooth structure that is immediately under the enamel and surrounds the dental pulp.
A direct pulp cap is a procedure in which a professional treats exposed pulp with a therapeutic material to help the tooth heal.
The enamel is the hard, calcified layer that covers the entire tooth and is subject to interaction with multiple substances.
An endodontist is a specialist who focuses on treating issues, diseases, and conditions that affect the inner-most layer of the tooth, the dental pulp.
A pulpectomy is a procedure that involves the complete removal of pulp tissue from the root canal in a tooth.
Pulpitis is another term to describe the inflammation of the dental pulp due to an injury or infection.
A pulpotomy is a procedure involving the removal of a portion of diseased or infected pulp in order to protect the healthy portions of the pulp and teeth still in the mouth.
Call Us Today
Fractures are common and painful problems that require treatment as quickly as possible. Smile Solutions can help find the right treatment option for you. Call us to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.