Cracked Tooth Treatment
Expert diagnosis and treatment for cracked and fractured teeth. Emergency appointments available for severe cases.
Understanding Cracked Teeth
Cracked teeth are a common dental problem that can range from minor cosmetic issues to serious conditions requiring immediate treatment. Early detection and proper treatment are crucial for saving the tooth.
Why Cracks Develop
Teeth can crack for various reasons, from everyday wear and tear to sudden trauma. Understanding the causes can help prevent future cracks and protect your oral health.
Types of Tooth Cracks Explained
Watch this educational video to learn about the different types of tooth cracks and their treatments.
Types of Tooth Cracks
Different types of cracks require different treatments. Understanding the severity helps determine the best approach.
Craze Lines
Tiny cracks in the outer enamel that are usually harmless and don't require treatment. These superficial lines are common in adult teeth.
Treatment:
Usually no treatment needed, monitoring only
Fractured Cusp
When a piece of the tooth's chewing surface breaks off, usually around a filling. Often occurs in teeth with large fillings.
Treatment:
Crown or onlay to restore function; root canal if crack reaches nerve or symptomatic (pain, sensitivity to temperature, chewing discomfort); extraction if severely damaged
Cracked Tooth
A crack that extends from the chewing surface toward the root, potentially requiring root canal therapy for complete treatment.
Treatment:
Root canal therapy and crown; extraction if crack extends below gum line
Split Tooth
A crack that has progressed to separate the tooth into distinct segments. Often results from untreated cracked tooth.
Treatment:
Extraction and replacement usually required
Vertical Root Fracture
Cracks that begin in the root and extend toward the chewing surface. Often occur in teeth that have had root canal treatment.
Treatment:
Usually extraction required
Understanding Cracked Tooth Treatment
The extent of the crack determines whether a tooth can be saved or requires extraction. Early detection is crucial for preserving the tooth.
Cracked Tooth Treatment Options
A cracked tooth denotes a crack that extends vertically from the chewing surface of the tooth towards the root. Although the tooth remains in one piece, the crack may gradually progress. Early detection is crucial for preserving the tooth.
Treatable Cracks
If the crack has reached the pulp or if the tooth is symptomatic (pain, discomfort, sensitivity to cold/hot, etc.), the tooth can usually be treated with a root canal, post and crown procedures to prevent the crack from spreading.
Non-treatable Cracks
However, if the crack extends below the gum line, it becomes irreparable, rendering the tooth unsalvageable and requiring extraction, grafting, and a dental implant placed (a dental bridge is sometimes an option as well).
Important: Early detection and treatment are very important. An untreated cracked tooth can deteriorate rapidly, ultimately leading to tooth loss and possibly surrounding bone loss. Timely diagnosis and intervention play a pivotal role in saving a cracked tooth.
Signs of a Cracked Tooth
Cracked teeth can be difficult to diagnose because symptoms may come and go. Watch for these warning signs.
Common Symptoms
When to Seek Emergency Care
Some cracked tooth situations require immediate attention to prevent further damage and save the tooth.
Treatment Options for Cracked Teeth
Treatment depends on the type, location, and severity of the crack. Early treatment provides the best outcomes.
Bonding or Crown
For minor cracks, dental bonding or a crown can protect and restore the tooth.
Root Canal Therapy
If tooth is symptomatic and causes pain, discomfort, chewing discomfort, pressure, temperature sensitivity or the nerve is exposed, then root canal treatment can be attempted to save the tooth.
Extraction & Replacement
Severely cracked teeth may need extraction and replacement with an implant or bridge; or no replacement.
Early Detection is Key
The sooner a cracked tooth is diagnosed and treated, the better the chance of saving it. Don't wait if you suspect you have a cracked tooth.
Don't Let a Crack Become a Crisis
Early treatment of cracked teeth can save your tooth and prevent more extensive procedures. Contact us today for expert evaluation and treatment.
Serving the Greater Seattle Area
Expert cracked tooth repair and dental trauma treatment for patients throughout the Eastside communities. Emergency appointments available.
Areas We Serve
Don't see your city listed? We welcome patients from throughout the greater Seattle area. Call us to discuss your cracked tooth treatment needs.