Fractured teeth
Written by Dentist Rune Skou, 2008-20-12Last update: 2010-01-01
Fractured teeth are often the result of dental trauma or long-term weakening.
How it works:
Teeth can get fractures by being suddenly hit with great force. Alternative responses to such an injury are having the teeth knocked out or developing cracks.
Fractures can also be caused over an extended period if teeth are exposed to excessive bite force or have had many fillings or root canal procedures performed on them. When weakened in these ways, even a small amount of trauma can cause fractures to form.
The body’s defence mechanisms:
There are no natural protection mechanisms against trauma fractures other than our instinctive unwillingness to cause ourselves pain.
To protect against long-term stress fractures, the body causes pain in affected areas before damage occurs.
Risk factors:
- Trauma
- Excessive bite force
- Amalgam fillings
- Cracked teeth
Prevention:
To avoid fractures caused by dental trauma, the American Dental Association recommends using a tooth guard when playing dangerous/violent sports such as soccer, football, waterpolo, rollerskating, racketball, team handball, ice-hockey, boxing, basketball, wrestling and riding.
To avoid fractures caused by teeth grinding, wearing a bite splint is recommended.
To avoid fractures caused by fillings, old amalgam fillings can be exchanged for new composite fillings or teeth can be treated with crowns.
What will your dentist/dental hygienist do?
Your dentist/dental hygienist will make you aware of any teeth which are in danger of fracturing. If you choose a preventative treatment to combat the risk, they will then discuss your options and perform the necessary procedure as outlined above.