Root Canal Clininc

Cracked Teeth Treatment | Care for Broken Tooth

Discover potential solutions to address cracked teeth that an experienced endodontist could provide to ensure your dental health and comfort.

Key Outcomes of Cracked Teeth Treatment

Manage Pain and Discomfort

Treatment for cracked teeth focuses on addressing discomfort, utilising procedures that stabilise the tooth structure and minimise sensations of discomfort during normal activities like eating and drinking. Early intervention can also prevent the crack from worsening, ensuring that discomfort does not become chronic or debilitating.

Mitigate Risk of Further Damage or Decay

Addressing cracks promptly through appropriate dental treatments helps safeguard the tooth from further deterioration. This intervention is crucial to maintain oral health, save the tooth, and prevent the progression that could necessitate more complex dental care.

Restoration of Tooth Function and Strength

Treatments aimed at addressing cracked teeth help maintain or potentially improve tooth functionality and structural integrity. Treatment can involve procedures like bonding or crowning, which help protect the tooth and allow it to handle the pressures of chewing without further damage. This not only aids in chewing and other functions but also supports the longevity of the tooth’s usability.

Improved Aesthetic Appearance

Aesthetic improvements are a significant aspect of treating cracked teeth. Procedures such as bonding, veneers, or crowns aim to restore the natural appearance of teeth, enhancing your smile and boosting confidence.

Avoidance of More Extensive and Costly Treatments

Initiating timely treatment for cracked teeth can circumvent the need for more invasive procedures, such as root canals or extractions, in the future. By addressing the issue promptly, you can maintain the tooth’s health and avoid complications that may arise from neglecting the problem. This not only saves you money but also preserves your natural tooth structure, which is preferable for long-term oral health.

What is a Cracked Tooth?

A cracked tooth is a damaged tooth caused by a break or fracture. These fractures can range from minor surface cracks that do not affect tooth stability to severe splits that compromise the tooth’s integrity, potentially necessitating immediate dental intervention. Known also as cracked tooth syndrome or a fractured tooth, these conditions can affect any part of the tooth, from the crown to the root, each presenting unique challenges and requiring specific treatments to address the damage adequately. However, these cracks are most commonly found in the molars due to their exposure and usage in biting and chewing. And with our modern stressful life, crack tooth syndrome is getting common.

Symptoms of Cracked Tooth

The symptoms you experience may depend on the location and severity of the crack. Some possible symptoms include:

Pain When Chewing or Biting

Experiencing sharp pain when applying pressure, such as during chewing or biting, is a common symptom of a cracked tooth. This discomfort arises as the cracked sections of the tooth flex during mastication, stressing the fracture site and aggravating sensitive inner structures.

Sensitivity to Hot, Cold, or Sweet Foods and Drinks

A noticeable increase in sensitivity to temperatures or sweet flavours often occurs with a cracked tooth. This sensitivity is due to the irritant (hot/cold/sweet food) seeping into the fine crack lines and irritating the nerve in the tooth.

Intermittent Pain

The pain related to a cracked tooth might come and go, appearing only under certain conditions like eating specific foods (think chilli seeds), or it may suddenly emerge without obvious triggers.

Swelling of the Gum Around the Affected Tooth

Gum swelling around the affected tooth is common, typically resulting from inflammation caused by the crack, which can harbour bacteria, leading to irritation or infection.

Discomfort or Irritation of the Tongue if the Tooth Has a Sharp Edge

If the crack creates a sharp or rough edge, it can continuously irritate the tongue or cheeks, leading to discomfort or even small lesions from repeated contact.

Difficulty Pinpointing the Source of the Pain

Cracked tooth pain can be elusive. Patients often complain of vague discomfort and are unable to pinpoint the exact location of the offending tooth. They can confuse upper tooth dis-comfort with lower tooth discomfort. Sometimes this can drag on for years.

Cracked Teeth Treatment Options

Dental Bonding

Dental bonding involves applying a tooth-coloured resin to the damaged area of a tooth. This method is akin to sculpting with clay, allowing for adjustments in shape and size before the resin sets and hardens. Once cured, it is polished to blend seamlessly with the surrounding tooth structure, concealing the crack.

Crown

A crown is typically recommended to encapsulate a cracked tooth, providing robust coverage across the entire tooth. This custom-fitted cap, made from ceramic, is designed to cover the tooth, protecting it from additional harm while mimicking its original shape and functionality.

Root Canal

For cracks that extend into the pulp of the tooth, a root canal is necessary to prevent infection and further complications. During this procedure, the damaged pulp is removed, the inner chamber is cleaned, and the tooth is sealed. A crown is added afterwards to ensure the tooth’s integrity.

Dental Implant

If a crack extends below the gum line, making the tooth non-restorable, a dental implant is the next viable option. This involves removing the compromised tooth and replacing it with an implant that mimics the look and function of a natural tooth.

Dental Veneers

Dental veneers are custom-made shells made from porcelain, designed to cover the front surface of teeth. These can be useful for concealing visible cracks and aim to improve the aesthetic appearance of teeth.

Observation

For minor cracks, such as small hairline fractures that do not compromise the tooth’s structure or cause pain, observation may be recommended. Regular check-ups will monitor the crack to ensure it does not progress.

Rebonding

Rebonding may be required if a previous bonding treatment has deteriorated. This process involves removing the old material, preparing the tooth surface, and applying new resin to restore the tooth’s appearance and function.

Why Does a Cracked Tooth Hurt?

A cracked tooth can cause discomfort or pain for various reasons, mainly because of the exposure of more sensitive layers beneath the tooth’s hard exterior. Initially, when a tooth’s enamel—the outer protective layer—is cracked, there might be minimal to no discomfort. However, if the crack extends into the dentin, the layer underneath the enamel, symptoms can become more pronounced.

Dentin is less dense than enamel and closer to the central pulp of the tooth, which houses nerves and blood vessels. When dentin is exposed due to a crack, everyday activities like chewing can cause the crack to flex the remaining tooth structure, irritating the pulp and causing discomfort. Additionally, these openings/hairline cracks can allow bacteria to infiltrate the tooth, leading to infection within the pulp, which exacerbates the discomfort and may result in further complications, including abscesses.

When a crack in a tooth deepens or widens, it can weaken the tooth’s structure, increasing sensitivity to temperature changes from hot or cold drinks and foods. Without timely intervention, the damage may become permanent, leading to persistent discomfort, not just when exposed to certain stimuli. In severe cases, where the health of the pulp cannot be maintained, interventions like apicoectomy root canal therapy may become necessary to remove the affected pulp.

Causes of Cracked Tooth

Trauma or Injury

Cracked teeth can result from physical impacts such as those sustained during sports, falls, or vehicle accidents. Such injuries can instantly create significant fractures, requiring immediate dental assessment and intervention by an emergency dentist to prevent further complications.

Chewing Hard Foods

Consuming hard foods like ice and popcorn kernels and gnawing on chicken bones can also lead to cracked teeth. This is because the excessive force exerted on the teeth during chewing can cause the hard outer enamel to fracture, especially if the tooth structure has been weakened previously.

Teeth Grinding

Teeth grinding, or bruxism, often triggered by stress or anxiety, subjects teeth to excessive wear and pressure. Over time, this habit can lead to micro-fractures or significant cracks, particularly without the protective intervention of a nightguard.

Large Fillings

Teeth that have undergone large fillings may be more susceptible to cracks as the size of the filling might compromise the structural integrity of the natural tooth. This makes it more vulnerable to fracturing under normal chewing forces. The larger the filling, the higher the risk of a fracture.

Age-Related Wear and Tear

As teeth age, they naturally undergo wear and tear, which can weaken them and make them more susceptible to cracking. This risk increases with age, particularly after the age of 50, when teeth may have diminished strength due to years of use.

Sudden Temperature Changes

Exposure to extreme temperature changes can cause tooth enamel to expand and contract rapidly, leading to the formation of hairline cracks. For example, eating hot food followed immediately by an icy beverage can stress the enamel sufficiently to cause cracking.

Improper Bite Alignment

An improper bite alignment distributes biting forces unevenly across teeth. Over time, this uneven pressure can lead to stress fractures or cracks, particularly on teeth that bear the brunt of these misaligned forces.

Types of Cracked Tooth

Split Tooth

A tooth is considered to have a ‘split’ when there is a crack that extends from the tooth’s surface deep below the gum line, often dividing the tooth into distinct parts. In cases of severe splits, it may be challenging to preserve the entire tooth, although efforts are made to salvage as much of the tooth structure as possible through targeted dental procedures.

Fractured Cusp

A fractured cusp generally occurs around a dental filling where the tooth’s chewing surface breaks off, often without reaching the tooth’s pulp. This type of fracture generally results in minimal discomfort because it does not impact the nerve-rich areas of the tooth.

Cracked Tooth

A cracked tooth is characterised by a crack that starts at the chewing surface and progresses vertically towards the root. While the tooth remains in one piece, the crack may worsen over time. If the crack extends below the gum line, it often renders the tooth non-restorable, requiring extraction to prevent further complications.

Craze Lines

Craze lines consist of minor cracks, only affecting the outer enamel layer of the tooth. These are common in adult teeth and are typically considered cosmetic concerns as they do not cause pain or require treatment unless they affect the tooth’s appearance significantly.

Vertical Root Fracture

Vertical root fractures start below the gum line and travel upwards toward the tooth’s chewing surface. These fractures often remain undetected until the surrounding tissue becomes infected due to their subtle presentation and the depth at which they occur, potentially leading to the need for tooth extraction if significant damage or infection occurs.

Cost of Cracked Teeth Treatment

The cost of treating a broken tooth varies depending on the severity of the crack and the specific treatment required. Minor cracks may only need simple treatments, such as dental bonding to fix the crack, while more severe cases might require extensive procedures like root canals, crowns, or even dental implants, all of which could involve higher costs due to the complexity and materials used. However, each and every dental treatment plan is tailored to the individual’s needs. As such, patients are encouraged to consult with their dentist for an assessment.

To determine the exact nature of your dental concern and develop a personalised treatment plan with associated costs, we recommend scheduling a consultation with our endodontist. 

Recovery Post Cracked Teeth Treatment

Effective recovery from cracked teeth treatment involves both immediate and long-term care strategies to ensure optimal healing and prevent future issues.

Immediate Post-Treatment Care

Pain Management

To manage discomfort, apply an ice pack externally to reduce swelling. Rinse with salt water to cleanse the area and consider using NSAIDs to manage inflammation and discomfort.

Long-Term Care

Regular Dental Check-Ups

Schedule regular dental check-ups to monitor the recovery and overall health of your teeth, ensuring any potential issues like cracks, cavities, or gum disease are addressed promptly before they become serious.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cracked Teeth and Dental Treatment Options

Leaving a cracked tooth untreated could potentially lead to several complications. The crack may deepen or spread, increasing the risk of infection in the tooth’s pulp, which can result in abscesses and severe discomfort. Additionally, an untreated crack can weaken the tooth’s structure, potentially leading to tooth loss or the need for more invasive dental treatments or even extraction in the future.

A cracked tooth, unlike a broken bone, does not have the ability to heal and fix itself. Even with treatment, some cracks may worsen over time, potentially leading to tooth loss. However, dental intervention through restorative procedures like crowns can offer protection for a cracked tooth. However, do note that while most treatments can manage discomfort and mitigate the risk of further damage, they do not guarantee complete success. It’s important to consult with your dentist/endodontist to discuss your specific condition and recommended treatment options.

Recovery time after cracked tooth treatment varies depending on the severity of the crack and the type of treatment received. Generally, minor cracks treated with bonding or a filling may require only a few days for full recovery. However, if a crown or root canal is needed, it may take a couple of weeks to fully heal.

While it’s impossible to completely eliminate the risk of cracked teeth, there are steps you can take to reduce the likelihood. For instance, avoid chewing on hard objects like ice, popcorn kernels or chicken bones. Refrain from clenching or grinding your teeth; if you do so while sleeping, consider using a mouthguard as advised by your dentist.

If you suspect you have a cracked tooth, schedule an appointment with your dentist or endodontist as soon as possible. They will perform an examination to diagnose the issue and determine a suitable treatment plan. Be it a broken tooth that needs fixing or discomfort in the wisdom tooth that might require emergency wisdom tooth extraction, prompt, professional evaluation and care are crucial in preventing further damage and managing any discomfort.