Can I leave Fractured Tooth Root In?
A root fracture is the loss of integrity of the dental roots due to the appearance of a crack or complete separation between the root and the dental crown. Root fractures can be extremely serious and require, in addition to an accurate diagnosis, prompt and correct care so that a good prognosis can be obtained for the case and your tooth and root are more likely to be saved.
Signs and symptoms of a fractured tooth root
Mobility of the teeth and inflammation of the gums at the site of the crack are the most frequent signs. Pain and feeling that there is “something strange” with the tooth are also frequently reported symptoms. However, one must be aware of the fact that not all symptoms appear at the same time. It is possible for you to have a cracked root and not even know it! For this reason, it is important to make sure you are seeing your dentist regularly and having your dentist perform a very specific set of X-rays. Root fractures are typically diagnosed through specific radiographic examinations, soundings, and analysis of signs and symptoms, all of which must be performed by a dentist. Fractures in tooth roots are difficult to be detected by conventional radiographic examinations. In these situations, the use of computerized tomographic images is indispensable for the accurate diagnosis of the problem.
How can a root fracture?
Broken or fractured roots can be the result of weakened tooth structure by dental caries, infiltrations under dental restorations or prostheses, improper use of metal posts, incorrect technique for root canal (endodontic) treatment, wear on old dental restorations with composite resin or amalgam or even the excessive overload on the teeth, which act alone or jointly. Additionally, bruxism, which is the grinding of the teeth is associated with fractured tooth roots. Bruxism is a source of excessive contact forces on the teeth and tooth clenching, a frequent cause of fractures in dental crowns and roots.
If it is possible to recover the problematic tooth root, is it necessary to treat the root canal?
Depending on the location of the fracture and integrity of the dental pulp, which contains noble structures such as blood vessels and nerves, endodontic treatment may be necessary to prevent inflammation and pain during and after treatment of the broken tooth root.
Is a broken root something that will heal itself or that can be ignored?
No. The signs and symptoms associated with fractured and broken roots and teeth is a common situation that, in most cases, results in the loss of bone that can support dental implants or other means of restoring your smile if a broken tooth is lost. Therefore, it is important that you not leave a fractured root in your jaw.
What can happen if I leave the problem root without any treatment?
Gingival and bone inflammation, with progressive loss of the bone that supports the fractured tooth root, are common results if a fractured root is left untreated. The disintegration of your jawbone is serious health concern.