Fractured/Cracked Permanent Teeth

Also known as an enamel or dento-enamel fracture

traditionally occurs from an impact trauma such as a fall, a collision, or during sports activity.

The fracture should be addressed within 7-9 days of trauma.

When an impact trauma occurs we can see bleeding of the gums, bruising of the gum tissue, and discomfort when biting and tearing into foods.

We advise you to:

1. switch to a modified soft food diet and
2. avoid cold foods until you can be seen for evaluation.

Since the tooth has had disruption to its homeostasis it can often have thermal sensitivity, to aid in discomfort (most often to cold) we recommend drying the tooth off and using a Q-tip with toothpaste on it to rub around the exposed fracture.

This will help occlude exposed areas of the tooth and decrease sensitivity until we see you in office. Sensitivity often declines or disappears after a few days.

Depending on the severity of the fracture, the tooth may not be able to be restored to its final shape immediately, and can be covered with a temporary restoration as healing occurs.