What does “Cusp” mean?
A cusp is a part that rises like a peak from the crown of teeth such as premolars and molars. Together with the surrounding grooves, it is involved in chewing food and engaging the upper and lower teeth.
The cusps and grooves of the teeth are in one structure
The chewing surfaces of molars are made of peaks and valleys rather than flat plates. If you understand the peaks (cusps) and the grooves between them, it is easy to understand where cavities occur and the shape of the restoration. The number and shape of cusps vary depending on the tooth type and individual.
What does it mean to say that the cusp is broken?
This may indicate that part of the chewing surface is broken. The restoration method is determined by checking the amount of remaining teeth, the depth of the crack, and the relationship with the pulp. The scope of treatment may be different for a broken cusp or a deep crack in the entire tooth.
Things to check when restoring shape
When restoring a tooth with an inlay, onlay, or crown, contact with other teeth is also assessed. If a particular cusp touches first or chewing is painful after treatment, have it checked. Filing the shape at home with a nail file or similar tool can increase the damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are cusps the pointed parts on teeth?
This refers to the raised parts on the chewing surface, such as molars. Each tooth has a different number and shape of cusps, which are involved in contact with the opposing tooth.
If one cusp breaks, do I need to cover the entire tooth?
The extent of restoration will vary depending on the extent of the crack and damage, remaining tissue, and chewing force. Treatment is not determined solely by the size of the broken part.
If one spot feels too high after treatment, should I simply get used to it?
A restoration that feels too high or hurts when chewing may need its contacts checked. Report the symptoms to the treating dentist rather than filing it yourself or continuing to tolerate discomfort.
Cusp, 3 things to check during treatment
Please review the questions to ask before deciding on treatment and the treatment standards of TU Dental Clinic.
- A choice suited to your condition
Does the clinic check for cracks and bite as well as fracture areas?
TU Dental Clinic’s treatment standardsTU Dental Clinic determines the scope of treatment by checking the tooth structure and bite, gum condition, and existing treatment history.
TU’s natural tooth preservation treatment philosophy - Preservation of natural teeth
Does the clinic compare restoration options that preserve the remaining cusps?
TU Dental Clinic’s treatment standardsTU Dental Clinic examines the remaining tooth tissue and determines the scope of treatment by distinguishing between functionally necessary treatment and aesthetic adjustments.
TU’s natural tooth preservation treatment philosophy - Care after treatment
Does the clinic check for a high bite or pain when chewing after treatment?
TU Dental Clinic’s treatment standardsTU Dental Clinic provides guidance on hygiene and regular check-ups after gum treatment. Ask about care suited to your teeth and gum condition.
Integrated treatment that examines cavities and gums together
Further reading and references
References
- American Dental Association · Glossary of dental termsada.org (opens in a new tab)
- Academy of Prosthodontics · Glossaryacademyofprosthodontics.org (opens in a new tab)
- American Association of Endodontists · Cracked teethaae.org (opens in a new tab)
- HL7 · ADA Tooth Surface Codesterminology.hl7.org (opens in a new tab)
