#cracked teeth

Cracking Teeth

Take a look at smiling photos of yourself and you won’t spot these but they’re there. Microcracks (MCs). These tiny cracks in the hard outer coating of your teeth (enamel) develop with age. How do they affect tooth structure and integrity? Researchers investigate using X-ray micro-computed tomography of four extracted human teeth. Image processing using specific algorithms allowed the team to create 3D images of the density of the enamel (top row) and softer inner tissue (dentine, middle row), as well as MCs (bottom row) from different angles (left to right). This revealed an intricate star-shaped network of MCs that weren’t limited to the enamel but passed through into the dentine along two almost perpendicular planes. These healthy teeth nonetheless retained their structural integrity. MCs may therefore be involved in protecting tooth integrity from the strong forces applied to teeth daily. More research is needed to uncover how.

Written by Lux Fatimathas

Image from work by Irma Dumbryte and colleagues

Institute of Odontology, Faculty of Medicine, Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania

Image originally published with a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)

Published in Scientific Reports, December 2022

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Your smile is the first impression for others. Are you reluctant to smile because your teeth are misaligned, cracked or some teeth are missing?

An orthodontist can help you to give a better smile to you with traditional braces, non-extraction orthodontics or clear braces.

Most of us suffer because are teeth decayed, cracked or damaged. Only few might know that the treatment for these is called as “Cosmetic Dental Treatment” in common.

Cracked Tooth Filling Townsville - Broken Tooth Repair - Dental Precinct

Here at dental precinct, we have affordable solutions for Broken Tooth repair in Townville. If you have chip or knock out a tooth, Bring it straight to our office!

Your teeth are strong—but they’re not invincible. Tiny daily habits or one wrong bite can lead to cracks that grow silently over time. Whether it’s grinding in your sleep, biting into ice, or having old dental work, your enamel faces more pressure than you think.

Cracks aren’t just cosmetic. Left untreated, they can invite bacteria, lead to infections, or even tooth loss. At Dental Precinct, we spot these early and protect your smile before things go downhill.

Repairing Cracked Teeth

A fractured or broken tooth can hurt, but it can also detract from the appearance of your smile. At Dental Precinct, we provide restorative and cosmetic cracked tooth treatments to help your smile look whole again.

Depending on the severity of your cracked or broken tooth, we can repair the damage with a small white filling, composite bonding, or something more comprehensive like a full crown or root canal. The end results will eliminate sensitivity and restore your tooth’s typical shape.

Why Treat a Cracked Tooth?

A chipped or cracked tooth will only get worse with time. It’s important to repair the area while the damage is relatively small. Otherwise it could lead to continued problems and lengthier treatments.

If you chip or knock out a tooth, carefully store it in a sealed container and completely submerged in milk or saline. Bring it straight to our office!

Cracked Teeth: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Cracked teeth are a common dental problem that can affect people of all ages. A cracked tooth occurs when there is a fracture or break in the enamel—the hard outer layer of the tooth. These fractures can vary in severity, from minor cracks that are barely noticeable to severe breaks that expose the tooth’s inner layers and can cause significant pain. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for cracked teeth is essential to maintain oral health and prevent complications.

Causes of Cracked Teeth

There are several reasons why teeth may crack. One of the most common causes is trauma or injury. This can occur from accidents, falls, or sports-related injuries, which can exert excessive force on a tooth and cause it to fracture. Another major factor is biting down on hard objects, such as ice, hard candy, or nuts. Even habits like chewing pens or fingernails can gradually weaken teeth over time, making them more susceptible to cracks.

Dental decay or cavities can also contribute to cracked teeth. A tooth weakened by decay loses structural integrity, making it more prone to fractures under normal pressure. Additionally, teeth that have undergone extensive dental work, such as large fillings or root canal therapy, can become more brittle and susceptible to cracking. Age is another factor; as we get older, our teeth naturally undergo wear and tear, which increases the risk of cracks developing.

Bruxism, or teeth grinding, is another significant contributor to cracked teeth. People who grind or clench their teeth, often unconsciously during sleep or stressful situations, place excessive pressure on their teeth. Over time, this pressure can cause cracks to form, even in otherwise healthy teeth.

Types of Cracks

Dentists classify cracked teeth into several types, depending on the severity and location of the crack. One type is a craze line, which is a small, superficial crack affecting only the outer enamel. These lines are usually harmless and do not cause pain. A fractured cusp occurs when a portion of the chewing surface of the tooth breaks off, often near a filling. While this may cause sensitivity, it usually does not affect the pulp, the innermost part of the tooth containing nerves and blood vessels.

A more serious condition is a cracked tooth that extends from the chewing surface toward the root. This type can cause intermittent pain, especially when chewing or biting. If left untreated, the crack can worsen, potentially leading to infection or tooth loss. The most severe form is a split tooth, where the crack extends through the tooth completely, often requiring extraction. Another condition, known as a vertical root fracture, starts at the root and moves upward, usually affecting teeth that have undergone root canal treatment.

Symptoms of Cracked Teeth

Symptoms of a cracked tooth can vary depending on the severity of the fracture. One common symptom is pain when biting or chewing. The pain may be sharp and intermittent, often occurring when pressure is applied to the tooth. Some patients also report sensitivity to hot or cold foods and beverages, as the crack exposes the underlying dentin or pulp. In more severe cases, the tooth may become swollen or tender, indicating that the pulp has been affected and infection may be present.

Cracked teeth can be challenging to diagnose because the pain is often inconsistent and difficult to pinpoint. Some people may experience discomfort only when eating certain foods, while others may have persistent pain or swelling. In some cases, a cracked tooth may not cause any noticeable symptoms at all, which is why regular dental checkups are crucial for early detection.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing a cracked tooth typically involves a combination of a clinical examination and dental imaging. Dentists may use a dental explorer to feel for cracks or apply gentle pressure with specialized instruments to locate pain. Radiographs, or X-rays, can help detect fractures, although small cracks may not always be visible. In some cases, a dentist may use a special dye or perform a bite test to identify the crack and assess its severity.

Treatment Options

Treatment for cracked teeth depends on the type, location, and severity of the fracture. For minor craze lines, no treatment may be necessary beyond regular monitoring. A fractured cusp can often be repaired with a dental crown or bonding material, which restores the tooth’s shape and function.

For more significant cracks, such as those affecting the pulp, a root canal treatment may be required. This procedure removes the damaged or infected pulp, cleans the interior of the tooth, and seals it to prevent further infection. After a root canal, the tooth is typically restored with a crown to provide strength and protection. In cases where a tooth is split or severely fractured, extraction may be the only option, followed by replacement with an implant, bridge, or denture.

Prevention

Preventing cracked teeth involves maintaining good oral hygiene and avoiding habits that put undue stress on teeth. Using a mouthguard during sports or nighttime grinding can protect teeth from trauma and bruxism. Avoiding hard foods and refraining from chewing on non-food items can also reduce the risk of fractures. Regular dental checkups allow early detection of cracks and weakened teeth, making treatment less invasive and more effective.

Conclusion

Teeth Whitening and Bleaching Treatments- Miranda Dental Centre | Dentist in Sydney

Find out how long teeth whitening lasts, what affects the results, and easy ways to maintain a bright smile through good habits and regular dental care.

A white healthy smile gives you confidence, and that is why teeth whitening is the most desirable treatment. After your treatment, you may wonder how long does teeth whitening lasts.Teeth whitening result depends on oral hygiene, eating habits, and lifestyle.This helps set realistic expectations for maintaining a whiter smile.

Brushing twice daily, avoiding staining foods and drinks, and regular dental cleaning can extend the effects longer. If you take good care of your habits, your smile might last three months to one or more years. Remember, you might have touch-up work as needed to continue making your teeth appear their very best.

In this blog, we’ll explore how long is the teeth whitening duration. We’re also going to give you advice on how to keep the result lasting. If properly maintained, you can extend your radiant smile. We’ll give you instructions on how to maintain the effects of your treatment and keep your teeth at their best. Keep reading to learn how to maintain teeth whitening results as you can!

What Is Teeth Whitening?

Teeth whitening removes stains and discolouration, making your teeth whiter.They are usually caused by tea, coffee, or smoking. You can get your teeth whitened through a professional teeth whitening by our dentist. You can also use over-the-counter products that you can apply at home. This aims for a whiter, more confident smile without harming your teeth.

Why Do People Choose It?

People choose teeth whitening because they want a whiter, healthier smile. It enhances appearance to make you feel more confident daily. Discoloured teeth are caused by food, beverages, and cigarettes and turn yellow with age. Whitening helps reverse those effects, giving your smile a fresh, clean look. It’s also a fast, non-surgical way of improving how you feel about your teeth without major dental surgery. For a job interview, or just your self-confidence, a smile with a whiter finish can make all the difference.

How Long Does Teeth Whitening Last?

Teeth whitening will last from a few months to years. This will depend on how well you take care of your teeth and how much you eat and drink. Professional teeth whitening last longer than home teeth whitening. When you drink coffee, tea, or wine regularly, or you smoke regularly, your teeth get darker very fast. Follow-ups by our dentist will make your teeth whitening more longer.

What Factors Can Affect the Teeth Whitening Duration?

Diet : Foods and drinks like coffee, tea, wine, and berries can stain teeth.

Smoking : Tobacco use can cause stains and shorten whitening results.

Oral Hygiene : Poor brushing and flossing habits can cause stains to build up.

Type of Whitening Treatment : Professional treatments usually last longer than at-home kits.

Personal Habits : Chewing on hard foods or not following aftercare instructions can affect results.

Natural Tooth Colour : Some people’s teeth stain faster or more easily than others naturally.

Age : The older you are, the more sensitive your teeth can become to staining.

Teeth Sensitivity : Sensitive teeth will need milder treatment, which could influence how long the effects will last.

How to Maintain Teeth Whitening Results After a Professional Treatment?

Brush and floss : Brush twice a day and floss once daily to stop the build-up of stains.

Avoid stain-causing foods and beverages : Reduce coffee, tea, red wine, and dark foods that cause tooth stains.

Whiten with toothpaste : Select a toothpaste that keeps your whitening going and stops new stains.

Drink through a straw : For drinks like soda or coffee, drink through a straw to prevent contact with your teeth.

Quit smoking : Smoking will cause yellowing and staining, so quitting will keep your teeth brighter.

Touch-up treatments : Discuss periodic touch-up treatments or at-home products with our dentist to keep your smile bright.

Regular checkups and cleanings : This will help maintain the results and health of your teeth.

What Are the Differences Between At-Home Whitening and Professional Teeth Whitening Duration?

Strength of Treatment

Professional: Uses stronger whitening agents for longer-lasting results.

At-home: Typically uses milder products, so results may fade quicker.

Longevity of Results

Professional: Results can last up to a year or more.

At-home: Results may last a few months and require more frequent touch-ups.

Treatment Time

Professional: A single session can provide long-lasting results.

At-home: Requires multiple treatments over time to see significant results.

Effectiveness

Professional: More effective, with faster and longer-lasting results.

At-home: May take longer to show noticeable results and doesn’t last as long.

Customisation

Professional: Custom treatments tailored to your teeth for optimal results.

At-home: General treatments that may not suit individual needs as well.

Can Teeth Whitening Treatments Be Repeated?

Teeth whitening treatments can be repeated, but space them out a little. Our experienced dentist can suggest how frequently your professional teeth whitening follow-ups. When using in-home products, follow the directions to prevent your gums and teeth from becoming irritated. Repeat the treatments to keep your smile bright.

When Should You Consider Getting Another Whitening Treatment?

Think of a follow-up whitening treatment when your teeth to stained. If you notice a stain from the first treatment, then you might want to get a follow-up.Remember that if you’re drinking tea or coffee, or if you’re always smoking, then your teeth get darkened or stained quickly. Always consult our dentist to determine when is good for your follow-up.

Why Choose Us for Professional Teeth Whitening:

Experienced Professionals – Our skilled team ensures safe and effective whitening treatments tailored to your needs.

Long-Lasting Results – We offer high-quality treatments that deliver longer-lasting results compared to at-home products.

Customised Treatment Plans – We assess your unique needs and customize treatments for optimal, even results.

Advanced Whitening Technology – We use the latest whitening technology for faster and more effective results.

Comfortable and Safe Environment – Our clinic ensures you feel comfortable and at ease during your treatment.

Personalised Aftercare Advice – We provide helpful tips and guidance to maintain your bright smile long after treatment.

Proven Track Record – We have a history of satisfied clients who have enjoyed radiant, confident smiles.

Affordable Options – We offer competitive pricing for professional teeth whitening without compromising on quality.