How long do dental implants last?

With proper care and good oral hygiene, dental implants can last for decades – potentially a lifetime. The titanium implant itself can effectively integrate with your jawbone permanently. The crown (visible tooth portion) may need to be replaced every 10 to 15 years due to normal wear and tear.

Am I a candidate for dental implants?

Generally, you need to have adequate bone density and healthy gum tissues to support the implants. However, even if you've experienced bone loss, bone grafting procedures can often improve your candidacy. The best way to know is through an evaluation by an implant dentist.

How painful is the implant procedure?

The implant placement procedure itself is not painful since it’s performed under anesthesia. You may experience some minor swelling and discomfort for a few days afterward, which can be managed with over-the-counter medication.

How do I care for dental implants?

You care for implants just like natural teeth - brush twice daily, floss once a day, and attend regular dental cleanings and check-ups. Good oral hygiene helps ensure the long-term success of your implants.

Tooth Fractures & Cracks | Emergency Dentist in Farmington, CT

Immediate Solutions for Dental Emergencies

A fractured or cracked tooth emergency can be both painful and alarming. Whether you’re experiencing sharp pain from a minor chip or a severe vertical root fracture extending into the tooth pulp, these dental emergencies require prompt treatment to prevent further damage and preserve your oral health.

Dr. Frank Kuzmin, your trusted emergency dentist in Farmington, CT, is ready to assist you in treating cracked or fractured teeth for instant relief and long-term dental health. To learn more about our emergency dental care services, call our Farmington dental practice at (860) 470-3660.

Types of Tooth Fractures Cracked Teeth

Craze Lines (Hairline Cracks)

Craze lines are superficial cracks that affect only the outer enamel of the tooth. While they’re typically harmless and don’t require emergency dental care, they may cause aesthetic concerns. Dental bonding can effectively improve their appearance.

Fractured Cusps

When a part of your tooth’s chewing surface breaks off, it’s called a fractured cusp. This type of fracture usually doesn’t cause severe pain but may lead to discomfort when biting hard foods. Our Farmington emergency dentist can restore your tooth by placing a dental crown over it.

Cracked Tooth Syndrome (CTS)

Cracked tooth syndrome involves a more significant fracture that extends from the chewing surface toward the root. Symptoms of a cracked tooth include pain when chewing and sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures. Depending on the crack’s location and severity, treatment options may include a dental crown, root canal treatment, or extraction if the crack extends below the gum line.

Split Tooth

A split tooth occurs when a tooth is vertically divided into separate segments. This serious injury usually extends from the chewing surface to the root and can cause intense, sharp pain. Saving a split tooth may not be possible, and extraction may be the only solution for this dental emergency.

Vertical Root Fracture

A vertical root fracture starts in the tooth’s root and extends upward. This fracture isn’t visible to the naked eye and may cause intermittent pain when biting. Unfortunately, vertical root fractures often result in tooth extraction, especially if the tooth pulp becomes infected.

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Common Causes of Fractured or Cracked Teeth

Understanding what causes tooth fractures and cracks can help you take preventive measures to protect your dental health:

Dental Trauma: Accidents or blows to the face can crack teeth, especially the top front teeth (incisors).
Biting on Hard Objects: Using teeth to open bottles or chew ice can lead to dental damage.
Tooth Decay: Untreated cavities weaken tooth structure, making teeth more susceptible to fractures.
Bruxism: If you grind your teeth, especially during sleep, you exert excessive pressure that can crack teeth.
Uneven Bite: An uneven bite forces certain teeth to bear more pressure, increasing fracture risk.
Age and Wear: As we age, our teeth naturally weaken and become more prone to cracks.

Emergency Treatments for Cracked Teeth and Fractured Tooth

Dental Bonding

For minor cracks such as craze lines, dental bonding offers a non-invasive, cost-effective solution. Your dentist will apply a tooth-colored composite resin to the damaged area, carefully shaping and bonding it to restore appearance and reinforce structure.

Dental Crown

A dental crown is often recommended for severely cracked teeth. This treatment involves placing a custom-made crown over the entire visible portion of the tooth, effectively restoring its shape, function, and appearance. Dental crowns provide long-lasting protection for repaired teeth.

Root Canal Treatment

When a crack reaches the inner pulp of your tooth, causing excruciating pain and sensitivity, root canal treatment may be necessary. During this procedure, the infected or damaged pulp is removed, and the canal system is thoroughly cleaned and sealed. A dental crown is typically placed afterward to protect the treated tooth.

Tooth Extraction

In cases where a badly cracked tooth can’t be saved, tooth extraction becomes the last resort. After extraction, Dr. Kuzmin will discuss tooth replacement options such as dental implants, dental bridges, or dentures to restore your smile and maintain proper oral function.

How to Prevent Fractured or Cracked Teeth

Good oral hygiene and preventive care are key to avoiding dental emergencies:

Wear a Mouth Guard: If you participate in sports or grind your teeth, a custom mouth guard can protect against fractures.
Avoid Chewing Hard Objects: Refrain from using your teeth to open packages or chew on hard items like ice or pens.
Maintain Regular Dental Visits: Professional cleanings and check-ups help detect potential issues before they become emergencies.
Address Bruxism: Talk to your dentist about solutions to protect your teeth if you grind or clench them.
Correct Uneven Bite: Consult with your dentist about addressing bite issues to prevent dental damage.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Regular brushing and flossing strengthen teeth and prevent decay that can lead to fractures.

Frequently Asked Questions

While a cracked tooth is considered a dental emergency, visiting the emergency room is generally not necessary unless you’re experiencing severe pain, excessive bleeding, or other serious symptoms. Instead, contact Dr. Kuzmin’s office immediately for emergency dental care.

Not all fractured teeth need extraction. Treatment depends on the crack’s severity and extent. In many cases, dental procedures like bonding, crowns, or root canal therapy can effectively repair the fractured tooth. However, if the tooth is extensively damaged and cannot be restored, extraction may be necessary.

Fixing a broken or cracked tooth is urgent, especially if the fracture has exposed inner layers, leading to sensitivity and pain. Prompt treatment prevents further damage and infection. Ignoring a broken tooth may worsen the condition and eventually lead to tooth loss.

You should schedule an appointment with your dentist within 24-48 hours of experiencing a tooth fracture. While waiting for your appointment, you can manage pain with an ice pack and over-the-counter pain relievers, avoid hard foods, and maintain good oral hygiene to prevent infection.

Receive Emergency Dental Care in Farmington, CT

When it comes to emergency tooth fractures and cracks, time is essential. Seeking prompt dental care and understanding available treatment options are critical for preserving your dental health and relieving pain.

Dr. Kuzmin provides expert emergency dental care for patients experiencing cracked or fractured teeth in Farmington, Plainville, New Britain, Hartford, Newington, and surrounding areas. Our dental team is committed to restoring your smile and eliminating pain as quickly as possible.

Don’t wait if you have a cracked tooth—contact us immediately at (860) 470-3660 to schedule your emergency appointment in Farmington.

Look what our Happy Patients are saying!

I can’t believe I’m saying this about a dental office, but these guys are unbelievably helpful and friendly! Dr. Kuzmin was great, gave me an assessment and didn’t try to recommend additional stuff I wasn’t interested in. But the best part of using Pinnacle is Christine at the front desk! She worked with me over the weekend to get me in quickly and easily, amazing service with a smile! I’ve found my new home for dental work! See you in 6 months!

— Mark P.

Dr. Kuzmin is a skilled dentist who is completing a dental implant. I appreciate all of his professional development in this area, his professional and genuine concern and pride in his work. Thank you! His staff is so welcoming and new office beautiful!

— Carol H.

Very professional and wonderful staff. I also like the doctor, compassionate to your needs.

— Marygale B.

The entire staff at Pinnacle Dental is nothing but kind and helpful! Dr. Kuzman really embraces technology and has state of the art equipment. Every experience I’ve had at Pinnacle has been amazing and I’ll always recommend them to friends and family. Thank you all so much for making the “dreaded” dentist such a good experience!

— Eric P.

Dr. Kuzmin created a professional environment with highly- skilled people in all positions. The office setting is very relaxed with state-of-the-art equipment. Highly-recommend Pinnacle Dental.

— Linda M.

The office manager was especially kind in helping me reschedule due to an emergency with my son. Now that I finally made it in, it was lovely to see the offices were beautifully renovated. But most of all, the entire staff creates a warm, caring environment. Pleased to say I’ll be sticking with Pinnacle Dental!

— Marah L.

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Emergency Tooth Fractures and Cracks in Farmington, CT