Cracked Tooth Treatment

Types of Cracked Teeth

• Craze lines: tiny surface cracks in the enamel. They're common, usually harmless, and often only cosmetic.
• Chipped or fractured cusp: a piece of the chewing surface breaks off, often around a large filling.
• Cracked tooth: a crack that runs from the chewing surface toward the root. Catching it early is key to saving the tooth.
• Split tooth: a crack that has divided the tooth into separate pieces.

Signs of a Cracked Tooth

• Sharp pain when you bite down, especially when you release
• Pain that comes and goes rather than staying constant
• Sudden sensitivity to hot, cold or sweet foods
• Swelling of the gum around one tooth

Cracks can be hard to see, even on X-rays, so tell us exactly when and where it hurts. That helps us pinpoint the problem.

How We Treat It

Treatment depends on the type, location and depth of the crack:

• Bonding: repairs small chips and surface cracks with tooth-colored resin.
• Onlay or crown: holds a cracked tooth together and protects it from further damage.
• Root canal: needed if the crack has reached the nerve, followed by a crown.
• Extraction: if the crack extends below the gumline and the tooth can't be saved, followed by replacement with an implant or bridge.

Preventing Cracks

• Wear a nightguard if you clench or grind
• Wear a mouthguard for contact sports
• Avoid chewing ice, hard candy and popcorn kernels
• Don't use your teeth to open packages

Cracked Tooth FAQs

Will a cracked tooth heal on its own?

No. Unlike bone, teeth can't repair cracks. Without treatment, a crack usually grows.

Is it an emergency?

If you have severe pain, swelling, or a piece of tooth has broken off, call us as soon as possible.

What should I do until my appointment?

Chew on the other side, avoid very hot or cold foods, and rinse with warm water. Take an over-the-counter pain reliever if needed.