Do I Need to Replace a Dental Bridge If a Tooth Beneath It Cracked?

Posted by AllSmiles

My dentist recommends placing the dental bridge on the upper left because my first premolar beneath the bridge cracked. I didn’t know the tooth cracked until my dentist completed the X-ray. The tooth has no symptoms, so I want to avoid the cost of a new bridge if it isn’t necessary. Does a cracked tooth automatically result in bridge replacement? Thank you. Dana from Chicago

Dana

If your diagnosis of a cracked tooth beneath a bridge is accurate, it would require extracting the tooth and constructing a longer bridge to replace the missing tooth. However, there are several reasons to question this assessment.

• You’re not experiencing any symptoms. If the tooth’s root were cracked, you would likely feel sharp pain when biting down on hard foods. The absence of pain suggests that the tooth may not be cracked.
• It is unusual for a crowned tooth to develop a crack in the root. Crowns strengthen and protect weakened teeth, preventing cracks from spreading and leading to tooth loss. While it’s possible for a tooth with a crown to fracture above the gum line, especially in cases of extreme biting force, a root crack is less common.
• Research has demonstrated the effectiveness of crowns in preserving even severely fractured teeth. Sometimes, the pieces of a fractured tooth can be reassembled and crowned, saving the tooth from extraction.

We recommend seeking a second opinion. However, it’s essential to approach this consultation with caution. Avoid mentioning the previous dentist’s diagnosis or any concerns that might influence the second dentist’s assessment.

Instead, request a general evaluation of your oral health. Ask the second dentist to examine your upper-right teeth and look for any potential issues. This approach will ensure an unbiased and independent opinion.

Chandler, Arizona, dentists Dr. William Walden and Dr. Tyrel Beavers sponsor this post. Read how they strive to give patients some of the best dental care in Chandler.