Author name: Dr. Samuel Dutil

What you need to know if you have a Crack Tooth?

What are the Symptoms of a Crack tooth?

A cracked tooth can be quite uncomfortable and may present with various signs and symptoms. It is always good to be attentive to these symptoms as prompt action may prevent the problem from worsening and complicating the potential for treatment.  Here are some common signs to look out for:

  1. Sharp pain when you bite down or chew, especially when you release the bite.
  2. Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods.
  3. Swelling or tenderness around the affected tooth.
  4. Intermittent pain that comes and goes.
  5. Visible lines or breaks on the tooth.

Not all cracked teeth cause symptoms, so it’s important to see your dentist if you suspect you have one. They can diagnose the issue and recommend appropriate treatment. If asses on time the crack propagation can be slowed down. This way preventing how soon the crack will evolve to the next stage.

 

The different stages of a crack tooth

A cracked tooth can progress through several stages, each with varying degrees of severity and symptoms. Here are the main stages:

  1. Craze Lines:
    • These are tiny, superficial cracks in the enamel.
    • They are usually painless and don’t require treatment.

2. Fractured Cusp:

    • This occurs when a piece of the tooth’s chewing surface breaks off, often around a filling.
    • It typically doesn’t affect the pulp (the tooth’s inner tissue) and may cause minimal pain.

3. Cracks Extending into the Gum Line:

    • A vertical crack that extends from the chewing surface towards the gum line.
    • If the crack hasn’t reached the gum line, the tooth can often be saved. If it extends into the gum line, the prognosis worsens.

4. Split Tooth:

    • This is a more severe crack that splits the tooth into two distinct parts.
    • It often extends below the gum line, making it difficult to save the entire tooth.

5. Vertical Root Fracture:

      • This crack starts below the gum line and extends upwards.
      • It may not cause noticeable symptoms initially but can lead to infection over time.
 

How can a crack be found?

Exploring during routine examination:

During your dental exam at Academy Dental, your dentist will be evaluating crack if found in a tooth. It is common to find cracks in the form of Craze Lines and the difference between them and  slightly deeper crack can be difficult to evaluate. The dentist may use light propagation or a microscope to help evaluate the severity of a crack. When found during an exam, a photo may be taken and the proactive treatment for it will be reviewed. Keep in mind that, not all cracks are easy to diagnosed. Some may be hiding under an existing filling or crown. Most of the time cracks would be visible on an x-ray in there early stages. 

Before and After of a tooth displaying a crack using Light Propagation

Exploring during a procedure.

Some cracks will hide under existing fillings and may be found only once the filling is removed. This situation makes diagnosing and preventing cracks during routine exam very difficult. Our dentists at Academy Dental, may use a Dental Operative Microscope to find and see these cracks. This will help assessing the prognosis of a tooth and choosing the best treatment options. For example, when a crack is found during a root canal treatment procedure, the microscope may allow to see the extend of the crack from the very inside of the tooth.

Before and After of a Crack found after removing an old filling with a dental Microscope

When a tooth hurts

When a crack started to give symptoms, the sometime hidden crack may be found be localizing the source of the sensitivity.  At first, a bite test can be performed to find the specific area under a filling were a crack may hide. In other cases, if a crack as found its way deeper at the root level, gum probing can be done to find the source of the problem. Finally, x-ray 3D imaging can be done to find well hidden cracks evolving deeper in a root.

Your treatment options for a Crack Tooth in Edmonton

Early Treatment and Prevention

You may think that teeth often crack from chewing are hard things or having bit on that one pop corn seed that didn’t pop. Although, it is important to avoid overly hard food that can cause trauma to the teeth. In most cases, cracks are the result of subconscious habits that we often can not control. A lifetime of clenching, griding, a malocclusion or a bite problems, leads to a crack forming and evolving into the tooth. Just like a crack in your windshield. 

One way to prevent so of these force that you can not control is to consider using a nightguard. It is important for the nightguard to be custom made to your bite and properly adjusted. An other option, is to correct malocclusions or interferences in the bite.

Can a Crack be Sealed?

You first impression when receiving the diagnosis of a crack tooth is that it may be seal the same way a windshield ship can be repaired. Unfortunately, it is not  yet possible to pour resin or bonding agent into the crack of a tooth. Therefore,  if a tooth require treatment, it is done by covering and rebuilding the tooth structure. This is done in a way to reinforced the tooth so that the crack propagation may be slowed down. Ideally, a crown is the most reliable way to protect the tooth if the crack require treatment. In some cases, bonded restoration can be used to cover the crack.

Reinforcing a Tooth with Fiber Mesh

Sometimes, if a crack is found the restoration may be reinforced using a Fiber Mesh “Ribbond”. This material is place over the crack and help load distribution with the hope a preventing crack propagation.  In some cases, it may be an option for your. Our dentist at Academy Dental can review with you the potential of using Ribbond’s Fiber Mesh. Still, more research is needed to know the long term benefit of Ribbond. However, Fiber Mesh may be an alternative to a crown for you.

What to do if a crack extend below the Gum Line?

In the unfortunate event where a crack has gone deeper into the gum or the bone level, the prognosis of a tooth is greatly reduced. At first, your dentist will have to evaluate how deep the problem extend. Firstly, if a crack reached the nerve of a tooth a root canal treatment will be needed. However, if a crack reached the bone level the tooth may need to be extracted. Furthermore, your dentist may evaluate the situation using 3D x-ray, dental operation microscope or other diagnostic tools before making this decision.

Finally, in the event of an extraction we will review the replacement options with you. Generally, dental implants may be the best replacement option. Otherwise, dental bridges or removable denture are options that we can offer you in our dental office.

If you are concern about a crack tooth, experiencing some symptoms or if you are wondering about your options. Contact us now to book an appointment with our experiences Dentist in Downtown Edmonton.

What you need to know if you have a Crack Tooth? Read More »

Now Accepting CDCP in Downtown Edmonton

You can now use your Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)

Come have your dental care needs look after and get helped with the CDCP when you see our dentists at Academy Dental in Downtown Edmonton.​

Call 780-423-1869 and contact us!

The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is here to make dental care more affordable for eligible Canadian residents.

Where to Start ?

  • Seniors aged 65 and over.
  • Children under the age of 18.
  • Adults with a valid Disability Tax Credit certificate.
  • Applications for the CDCP open in phases.
  • Eligible individuals can apply online through Service Canada.
  • The CDCP helps cover some of the costs of various oral health care services.
  • It provides assistance for services like dental check-ups, cleanings, and treatments.

We Can Help!

Once you have been approve for the Canadian Federal Dental Coverage CDCP,

 

You can now contact us and our receptionist will help you scheduling your appointment in a prompt manner!

Until when is it available?

Yes! The Canadian Federal Dental coverage is still active in Alberta. You may have heard the news that the province of Alberta may retract from it in 2016. In the meantime, you can take advantage of the coverage if you are approved before it is too late. 

In June 2024, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith stated that Alberta would pull out of the federal government’s dental care plan by 2026. But, until negotiations are complete between the federal government and the Province, Albertans can continue to access the provincial low-income dental programs and qualify for the CDCP.  

How much are you covered?

Keep in mind that the CDCP will reimburse a portion of the cost, but it may not cover the full amount. Your adjusted family net income determines the coverage percentage. In addition, our professional fees may differ from the fee guide used by the federal program. On average, the Alberta fee guide may be about 15% than the one issued by the federal government for the CDCP.

At the moment, the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) provides coverage for a wide range of oral health care services. Here are some examples of what could be covered when recommended by an oral health provider:

  1. Diagnostic and preventive services:

  2. Restorative care:

Other procedure such as: Root canals, Crowns, Complete and partial dentures may need to wait until November 2024 before being approved. 

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Improving Your Oral Health by Preventing HPV

Preventing HPV can indeed contribute to better oral health. Consult your dentist at Academy Dental in Downtown Edmonton for personalized advice and vaccination options.

Here’s what you need to know:

  1. Understanding Oral HPV:

    • Oral HPV is a subtype of the human papillomavirus (HPV). It can affect your mouth, throat, and genitals.
    • Most people with oral HPV don’t experience symptoms, which means they can unknowingly spread the virus.
    • While oral HPV itself isn’t cancer, certain types (especially HPV-16) can potentially lead to oropharyngeal cancer, although this is rare.

  2. Prevention Strategies:

    • Vaccination: The best prevention method is HPV vaccination. Research shows that getting vaccinated significantly reduces oral HPV infections.
    • Oral Hygiene: Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups contribute to overall oral health.
    • Avoiding Tobacco and Alcohol: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption increase the risk of oral cancers, including those related to HPV.

  3. Signs to Watch For:

    • While most oral HPV infections are asymptomatic, be aware of signs that may indicate HPV-related oropharyngeal cancer:
      • Difficulty swallowing.
      • Coughing up blood.
      • Lumps in the neck or cheek.
      • Persistent hoarseness.
      • Swollen lymph nodes.
      • Sore throat.
      • Earaches.
      • White or red patches on the tonsils.
      • Jaw pain or swelling.
      • Unexplained weight loss.

Remember, vaccination is a powerful tool in preventing HPV-related health issues, including oral HPV. Consult your dentist at Academy Dental for personalized advice and vaccination options in Downtown Edmonton!

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Can you prevent Dry Socket?

What is a Dry Socket?

A dry socket is a painful dental condition that can occur after a tooth extraction. In some cases, the blood clot doesn’t form properly, gets dislodged, or dissolves too soon. When this happens, it results in a dry socket. Also known as alveolar osteitis, a dry socket leaves the nerves and bone in your gums exposed. We will discussed dry sockets and how Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) therapy may help you.

How do I  know if I have a Dry Socket?

You should call you dentist if you notice this symptoms after an extraction so he may diagnose any complication.

In general dry sockets with cause:

  • Pain in the jaw or mouth that radiates to the ear, eye, temple, or neck.
  • Bad breath and an unpleasant smell.
  • Visible bone in the socket.
  • Partial or total loss of the blood clot at the tooth extraction site.

How Can I prevent Dry Socket?

  • Avoid smoking cigars and tobacco products for a day or so after surgery.
  • Avoid spitting for the first 24 hours
  • Talk to our dentist about Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) solution.

What is Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) ?

Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) therapy is a valuable technique that can aid in preventing dry sockets after tooth extractions. PRF therapy utilizes the patient’s own blood to enhance the healing process. Before the extraction, oud dentists will take small blood which will be spun in a centrifuge to create a fibrin mesh rich in platelets and natural growth factors. The dentist will then placed it at the extraction site, this PRF mesh boosts the body’s natural healing ability, leading to a faster and more comfortable recovery.

  1. Naturally Accelerates Healing:

    • When placed at the extraction site, this PRF mesh boosts the body’s natural healing ability, leading to a faster and more comfortable recovery.
    • Since it’s derived from the patient’s own blood, there’s minimal risk of allergic reactions or rejection.

  2. Prevents Bone Loss:

    • After tooth extraction, there’s a risk of bone loss.
    • PRF contains essential growth factors that help regenerate bone tissue.
    • It preserves the natural contours of the jaw, which is crucial if you plan to replace the extracted tooth with a dental implant.

  3. Reduces Complications:

    • Dry socket is a common complication after tooth extraction.
    • PRF therapy shields the extraction site, promoting clot formation, fighting infection, and aiding natural healing.

  4. Improves Recovery:

    • Recovering from tooth extraction can be uncomfortable.
    • PRF forms a protective barrier over the open wound, reducing the risk of painful complications.
    • It also helps alleviate inflammation and swelling, enhancing patient comfort during and after the procedure.

In summary, PRF therapy is a safe and effective way to enhance healing, prevent complications, and improve recovery after tooth extractions. 

If you had an history of dry socket or if you are concern ask our Dentists at Academy Dental before your extraction to know if PRF is a good option for you.

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Cleaning Your Child’s Teeth

Until the age of about 8 years old, children must be helped by parents to clean their teeth properly. The dexterity needed to brush their teeth is about the same as the ability to write or print their name properly.

Even before your child has teeth you may want to clean their mouth and gums with a damp washcloth. This will get you and the child use to the routine. Don’t use toothpaste until the child has teeth.

To brush your babies teeth and gums, lie your baby in a comfortable position like on your lap so that you can see into their mouth.

Brushing Teeth

Point the bristles to where the gums and teeth meet

Children of about 3 years of age will generally become more cooperative with the brushing routine . Your child may want to be doing it themselves. Parents should be participating by completing the brushing process.

Use a small kids toothbrush with soft bristles to avoid hurting your child’s teeth and gums. You may use a toothpaste that has fluoride, only use a pea size amount and get your child to spit after brushing.

Use gentle circles motion to brush every surface of the teeth and part of the gum. You can hurt the gums by brushing too hard so it is important to remain patient and gentle.

Hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the teeth.


As the child develop contact between their teeth, parents should start to floss between the contact points. The use of floss picks will be easier to use.

You may brush your child teeth twice a day. To brush before bedtime is very important as the germs and bacteria that use sugar to make cavities will be active all night.

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