Is colloidal silver effective for treating a cracked tooth?

Colloidal Silver is Not Effective for Treating a Cracked Tooth

Colloidal silver is not recommended for treating cracked teeth; immediate dental referral is the appropriate management for tooth fractures, with specific treatments determined by the type and severity of the crack. 1

Types of Tooth Cracks and Recommended Management

Infraction (Crack Without Loss of Tooth Structure)

• If a tooth sustains a marked crack in the enamel without loss of tooth structure (infraction), placing a resin sealant over the crack line may be indicated to avoid staining 1
• In many cases, no immediate treatment is required for simple infractions, but the tooth should be monitored by a dentist for signs of pulpal necrosis until exfoliation 1
• Cracks can be visualized by shining a focused source of light, such as an otoscope, onto the crown of the tooth in an axial direction 1

Enamel-Only Fractures

• For fractures contained within the enamel surface only, the fracture area can be smoothed with a dental handpiece and polishing bur or left untreated if the fracture site is smooth 1
• These fractures generally cause minimal sensitivity and don't require immediate dental attention unless there is a sharp edge causing soft tissue injury 2
• The tooth should be monitored for signs of pulpal necrosis 1

Enamel and Dentin Fractures

• A tooth with an uncomplicated fracture involving enamel and dentin requires restoration with tooth-colored dental material 1
• Referral to a dentist within a few days is indicated due to potential sensitivity 2
• Covering exposed dentin reduces discomfort and the risk of pulpal bacterial contamination 1

Crown Fractures with Pulp Exposure

• If the fracture exposes pulpal tissue, pulpotomy or pulpectomy and restorative care is indicated 1
• Immediate dental referral is necessary to preserve pulp vitality 1, 2
• If treatment isn't possible due to the child's behavior, extraction of the traumatized tooth may be indicated 1

Pain Management for Cracked Teeth

• NSAIDs (such as ibuprofen) are recommended as first-line treatment for acute dental pain following tooth fracture, with acetaminophen as an alternative when NSAIDs are contraindicated 2
• Apply cold compresses to reduce swelling and discomfort 2
• Maintain a soft diet for the first 10 days after injury 2
• Avoid extremes of temperature with food and drink to prevent sensitivity 2

Prognosis and Follow-up

• Restored teeth with cracks have a guarded prognosis due to the risk of further crack propagation, but 5-year survival rates are acceptable (74.1-96.8%) 3
• Although cracks in teeth are prevalent, few will fracture (3%) or show crack progression within 3 years (12%) 4
• Characteristics that guide treatment decisions include active caries, biting pain, and cracks detectable with an explorer, connecting with a restoration, or blocking transilluminated light 4
• Complete crown coverage is the main treatment chosen for significant cracks 4, 5

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Delaying referral for crown fractures with pulp exposure can lead to pulpal necrosis 2
• Using alternative treatments like colloidal silver instead of proper dental care can delay necessary treatment and worsen outcomes 1
• Underestimating pain from dentin exposure requires prompt coverage to prevent bacterial contamination 2
• Failure to monitor treated cracked teeth can miss progression of the crack 3, 4

Timing of Dental Referral

• Immediate referral (same day) is necessary for crown fractures with pulp exposure, severe mobility, or significant pain 2
• Referral within a few days is recommended for enamel and dentin fractures with sensitivity 2
• Less urgent (within a week) referral is suitable for enamel-only fractures with minimal symptoms 2