Fractured Teeth
Fractured Teeth
Fractured Baby Teeth
- Since deciduous teeth are more delicate compared to adult teeth and most of these deciduous or “baby” teeth are mostly made up of pulp tissue, if these teeth are fractured, there is a significant possibility that there will be pulp exposure and thus these teeth are dead and infected.
- Since these deciduous teeth are so closely associated with their developing adult tooth (the adult tooth bud), this could cause infection and thus malformation of the adult tooth in this area.
- In these pictures, a Pathfinder endodontic file shows communication with a developing adult tooth bud through its fracture site of the crown of the deciduous tooth.
Fractured Adult Teeth
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Uncomplicated crown Fracture: An uncomplicated crown fracture involves damage to the enamel with exposure of the underlying dentin, but without exposure of the pulp tissue—the living part of the tooth that contains blood vessels and nerves. The exposed dentin can lead to sensitivity and provides a pathway for bacteria to enter through microscopic tubules. If bacteria reach the pulp, it can result in infection and the tooth becoming non-vital.
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Treatment Recommendations for Uncomplicated crown Fractures: Dental radiographs (x-rays) are essential to assess the vitality of the tooth and to rule out additional pathology. If the tooth is vital and no further issues are present, adhesive bonding and sealants are recommended. These materials seal the exposed dentin tubules, protecting the tooth from sensitivity and bacterial invasion. This treatment also encourages the formation of tertiary dentin, which further protects the tooth.
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Complicated crown Fracture in Pets Aged 2 Years or Younger (this is an urgent matter, and we like to treat these pets within 24-48 hours of the tooth fracture occurring: For pets under 2 years of age, the tooth’s pulp chamber is larger and more vulnerable due to ongoing development. If treatment is administered within 24-48 hours of the actual fracture, there is a good chance that vital pulp therapy will be successful, allowing the tooth to continue maturing and remain vital.
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Complicated crown Fracture: A complicated crown fracture involves exposure of the pulp, which becomes infected and non-vital. The treatment options are either Root Canal Therapy or Surgical Extraction, depending on the tooth’s importance and functionality.
