fractured cusp ============== q what is a fractured cusp? --------------------------- a this is a horizontal fracture in the cusp o
FRACTURED CUSP
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Q What is a fractured cusp?
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A This is a horizontal fracture in the cusp of the tooth, usually
found on filled double teeth.
Q What are the symptoms?
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A There will be pain when biting and chewing because the crack and
pain will only be present when pressure is applied.
Q Why has the tooth cracked?
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A
Normally the pressure of biting and chewing will be spread across the
whole width and surface of the tooth. When a tooth has been filled the
natural width and surface area of the tooth has been reduced. The
natural tooth will flex on pressure and with a filling present this
smaller natural area takes a greater amount of pressure. This
increased flexing and pressure can lead to the tooth cracking.
Clenching and grinding your teeth will also result in cracked teeth.
This problem is becoming increasingly common with today’s stressful
lifestyles.
Q
How will the dentist diagnose a cracked tooth?
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A X-rays cannot show up a hairline crack. Diagnosis will depend on the
information you give to the dentist. The filling will need to be
removed and the tooth examined under magnification. Often a black line
can be seen running through the tooth.
Q What can be done to treat the cracked tooth?
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A The treatment to save the tooth depends on the extent of the crack.
A crown would be the usual option but root canal treatment may be
required before the tooth is crowned.
Q Are cracks likely to appear in my other teeth?
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A Patients with one cracked tooth are likely to return with the same
problem in a different tooth.
Q What can be done to prevent further cracked teeth?
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A Your dentist might suggest making a night guard to protect your
teeth from night-time clenching and grinding.
Clinical Advisor David McAleavey BDS