After Cracked Tooth Root Canal, the first thing to remember is to contact a dentist as soon as possible. Although it is unlikely that the tooth will require a root canal, a fractured root can be quite challenging to detect. A good oral hygiene routine will help prevent this problem, so it is critical that you follow post-treatment instructions. You can also expect some swelling and discomfort after the procedure. Your dentist will provide you with specific post-care instructions.
Root Canal Treatment
In many cases, a cracked tooth can be cured without a root canal. However, root canals are not the best solution for this condition. In fact, root canals are not recommended for gingivitis, resulting in tooth loss. The good news is that this procedure is a less invasive alternative to root canal therapy. However, you may have to endure temporary discomfort and pain afterward.
First, your dentist will determine if a root canal is necessary. A root canal will remove any infected pulp and food debris from inside the tooth root. It will also draw blood supply and clean the space down to the heart. Afterward, your dentist will place a temporary crown on the cracked tooth until a permanent one can be molded.
Cracked teeth can result from a variety of different causes. Some cracks are more visible than others, so your dentist will need to examine the tooth and decide if root canal therapy will work for you. Cracked teeth may also be extracted if the damage is too extensive.
Recovery Time
A root canal is a procedure that can save a cracked tooth. The process is less invasive than an extraction, which involves removing the entire tooth. Depending on the tooth type and the damage level, however, it may take one to two weeks to fully recover from the system. During this time, patients are encouraged to follow post-operative instructions and make an appointment with their family dentist to monitor their condition.
A crack affecting the tooth’s root is considered a source fracture. It usually starts at the tooth’s heart and extends toward the crown. In some cases, the crack can be so severe that the tooth has to be extracted. During recovery, the patient is given pain medication to manage the discomfort. In addition, they are advised not to chew or pressure the tooth for a few days. Depending on the fracture type, a root crack can lead to an infection. Therefore, the sooner treatment is started, the better, as this can prevent further damage and tooth loss.
In most cases, a root canal is performed with the assistance of a local anesthetic. In some cases, antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs are prescribed. Patients may also be prescribed over-the-counter analgesics if the pain persists. It is also advisable to avoid smoking for a few days before a root canal.
Complications
A cracked tooth is risky, as it is highly likely that the pulp will be infected, requiring immediate attention. The infection can spread to adjacent teeth, bones, or gums. If it isn’t treated early enough, the tooth may lose its function, requiring replacement.
Root canals require a seal on the inside of a tooth to prevent bacterial growth. However, the seal inside the root canal can erode over time, leaving the area vulnerable to bacteria. This can lead to a cracked tooth, which will require extraction. A dentist can advise patients on the best course of action.
In addition, the cracked tooth root canal may become more extensive, penetrating the gum line and causing infection. A dentist will examine the tooth and take x-rays to determine the extent of the fracture. If the crack does not extend into the root, the dentist may choose to repair the tooth with a dental crown to prevent further damage. The dentist will need to remove previous dental work to complete the procedure.
Cost
A cracked tooth can be painful, so getting a root canal can help. However, the procedure can also be expensive. Fortunately, there are several ways to pay for a root canal, including using a dental payment plan. These plans allow you to pay for your treatment over a period of time without incurring interest. Some also offer a fixed discount on treatments. You can also consider joining a dental membership plan if you don’t have dental insurance. Some dental membership plans offer a discount on root canal treatments and regular checkups.
A cracked tooth can lead to fractures; if left untreated, it may even develop an abscess. In severe cases, the tooth may need to be extracted, and you might need a root canal. However, if the crack is small, you may not have symptoms and think you have a cavity. A cracked tooth can also be a cosmetic problem, and you may not even be aware of it. If you’re unsure, you should seek the advice of a dentist for an evaluation.
Root canal treatment is expensive, so you should consider your insurance coverage before scheduling a treatment. If you don’t have dental insurance, you can expect to pay anywhere from $700 to $1400. In addition, the cost of the procedure will not include a dental crown afterward.
