Types of Dental Root Fractures Houston, TX
Each layer of the tooth plays an important role in keeping your mouth healthy and happy. Whether it be from injury or general wear and tear, a dental root fracture can cause discomfort and pain. The sooner your tooth receives treatment, the better the outcome will be.
If you suspect that you have a fractured tooth, do not hesitate to protect your oral health. Our team at Midtown Dental - The Gallery of Smiles in Houston and the surrounding area can help. Contact us at (713) 979-4127 to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment.
Layers of the Teeth
The teeth consist of the enamel, dentin, and pulp. Enamel is the outer layer, which protects the inner layers of the tooth. The second layer is called the dentin, and it consists of tubules that act as a buffer between the enamel and the tooth's innermost layer. The pulp is the last layer of the tooth and contains nerves and blood vessels that keep each tooth alive.
Proper maintenance of teeth is essential for protecting the different teeth layers. Even minor untreated fractures can result in severe issues. A tooth fracture will damage the enamel and cause the other layers of the teeth to become increasingly susceptible to harm. Patients with a fractured tooth should contact us as quickly as possible to protect their oral health.
“The teeth consist of the enamel, dentin, and pulp.”
Types of Dental Root Fractures
A tooth fracture occurs when there is a break in the hard shell of a tooth. Although the enamel acts as a shield against disease and bacteria, a fracture can compromise this protective layer. If a crack is deep enough, germs can penetrate the pulp cavity and cause an infection.
There are several types of dental root fractures, including:
- Oblique subgingival fractures
- Oblique supragingival fractures
- Oblique root fractures
- Vertical apical fractures
- Vertical furcation fractures
- Vertical root fractures
“Although the enamel acts as a shield against disease and bacteria, a fracture can compromise this protective layer.”
Oblique Fractures
Subgingival Fractures
Oblique subgingival fractures extend below the gum line. The severity of the fracture depends on how far it has gone past the gum line. These fractures are usually painful as the fractured tooth usually remains in the gums after it breaks off. However, patients may have a subgingival fracture for years before feeling any pain.
Supragingival Fractures
This type of oblique fracture only affects the tooth's crown and does not extend below the gum line. Usually, a supragingival fracture results in the affected part of the tooth breaking off. Patients typically experience little pain as the nerves and blood vessels of the pulp remain intact and undamaged. Although this fracture may not cause immediate pain, it can lead to infection or pain in the future without treatment.
Root Fractures
Oblique root fractures do not usually affect the surface of the tooth at all. The damage occurs below the gum line, particularly under the bone. While this classification of fracture is not visible, it is very painful. Patients with oblique root fractures may require root canal treatment or extraction, depending on how close the fracture is to the tooth fracture.
“Oblique subgingival fractures extend below the gum line.”
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Google: Types of Dental Root Fractures in Houston, TX
Vertical Fractures
Apical fractures
Vertical apical fractures occur at the apex or tip of the tooth root. Many patients with vertical apical fractures ask for extraction because of the severe pain it causes. The severe pain is a result of tooth fragments placing pressure on the bone. Root canal therapy can help alleviate the pain, but some cases may require tooth extraction. Patients can discuss the best treatment option with our dentist.
Furcation fractures
When the roots of a tooth separate, a vertical furcation fracture occurs. This type of fracture almost always affects the tooth's nerves. Patients affected by this fracture experience pain and difficulty with simple tasks like eating and speaking. Root canal therapy and a crown can usually save teeth affected by vertical furcation fractures as the tooth does not generally split completely.
Root Fractures
A vertical root fracture happens when part of the tooth root breaks off. This type of damage is not common and usually occurs in teeth with endodontic treatment like root canal therapy. An apicoectomy may save the tooth if the vertical root fracture is short. Extraction is usually the common treatment; however, various studies have attempted to reunite fractured roots with varying success rates.
“Vertical apical fractures occur at the apex or tip of the tooth root.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. What are the layers of the teeth?
Q. What are the types of dental root fractures?
Q. What are the types of oblique fractures?
Q. What are the types of vertical fractures?
People Also Ask
Q. How common are root canals?
Q. What happens during root canal treatment?
Q. What if a crown or root canal cannot save my cracked tooth?
Q. How do lifestyle choices affect dental health?
Q. Is tooth extraction normal?
Q. What are some of the signs indicating a need for tooth extraction?
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How does a root fracture happen?
A. Root fractures can result from a traumatic injury or can happen in teeth with previous procedures like a root canal or crown. Healthy teeth can also be subject to cracks by chewing on hard materials and foods like popcorn kernels. Your treatment will depend on the complexity of the situation and the long-term prognosis of the tooth.
Q. What are the different types of root fractures?
A. There are vertical and oblique or horizontal fractures. Oblique fractures run side to side along the tooth and only make up about 3% of dental injuries. Vertical fractures start at the root and progress up toward the crown.
Q. What are some of the symptoms of root fracture?
A. Not all root fractures present symptoms, leaving them undetected if you do not see the dentist regularly. When there are symptoms, they can include discomfort or pain when biting or chewing food, sensitivity to hot and cold, and gum swelling. These symptoms may also come and go.
Q. How are root fractures treated?
A. The severity of the crack will determine the treatment plan. Sometimes, you can stabilize the tooth, but you will need a root canal if the fracture reaches the pulp. In some cases, the root fracture may be so severe that you will need a tooth extraction.
Q. What happens after treatment for a tooth fracture?
A. Following the treatment, the patient will need to be careful with what they eat. This way, the tooth can continue to heal properly. We will also go over the necessary care techniques the patient can take at home to further the recovery process.
Scan here to view this page, Types of Dental Root Fractures, on mobile
Endodontic Terminology
Call Us Today
Fractures are common and painful problems that require treatment as quickly as possible. Midtown Dental - The Gallery of Smiles can help find the right treatment option for you. Call us at 713-979-4127 to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2025
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2025
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2025
About our business and website security
- Midtown Dental – The Gallery of Smiles was established in 2001.
- We accept the following payment methods: American Express, Cash, Check, MasterCard, and Visa
- We serve patients from the following counties: Harris County
- We serve patients from the following cities: Aldine, Missouri City, Pasadena, Fresno and Baytown
- National Provider Identifier Database (1881807758). View NPI Registry Information
- Healthgrades. View Background Information and Reviews
- Norton Safe Web. View Details
- Trend Micro Site Safety Center. View Details
Scan here to open directions to Midtown Dental - The Gallery of Smiles on mobile
Back to top of Types of Dental Root Fractures
Related Posts
The Advantages Of Choosing An Implant Dentist For Tooth Replacement
If you have lost one or more of your teeth, talking to an implant dentist might provide the tooth replacement solution you are looking for. Dental implants are one of the most popular ways to replace missing teeth. Whether you are missing one tooth or all of your teeth, chances are there is an implant…
The Role Implant Dentists Play In Smile Makeovers
When it comes to achieving a beautiful and confident smile, the expertise of an implant dentist is essential. Smile makeovers are a comprehensive dental procedure involving restoring and improving a patient's teeth and gums. With the latest advancements in dentistry, patients can achieve their dream smiles with the help of a dentist who specializes in…
The Role Of Implant Dentists In Restoring Your Dental Health
Implant dentists are essential in helping patients regain a healthy and functional smile by providing innovative and personalized solutions for missing or damaged teeth. They specialize in the placement and restoration of dental implants. With their experience and techniques, implant dentists offer patients the opportunity to restore oral health and regain confidence in their smile.…
What To Ask An Implant Dentist About Dental Implants
Dental implants may be the answer if you are looking for a long-lasting alternative to dentures. Whether one, a few, or all the teeth are missing, an implant dentist can restore your smile. This blog will explore what to ask an implant dentist before getting implants.Traditional dentures are a great option for people who are…
Explore additional topics covered on our website:
Call Us Today
Scan here to call Midtown Dental - The Gallery of Smiles on mobile
