Cracked and fractured teeth are common dental problems, especially as patients retain their natural teeth longer due to advances in dental technology. Teeth may crack for a variety of reasons, including biting on hard objects, trauma, grinding, or clenching. These behaviors place extra strain on teeth, increasing the risk of cracks.

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Symptoms of a Cracked Tooth

  • Unexplained pain when eating
  • Sensitivity to hot or cold foods and beverages
  • Pain with no obvious cause
  • Difficulty pinpointing the location of pain

Types of Tooth Cracks

The type of crack often determines the treatment required. Some teeth can be saved with root canal therapy, while others may need extraction.

  • Crazes: Tiny vertical cracks that do not threaten the tooth. Usually require no treatment except for cosmetic reasons.
  • Oblique Supragingival Cracks: Affect only the crown of the tooth; the affected part may break off. Little to no pain occurs.
  • Oblique Subgingival Cracks: Extend below the gum line and sometimes below the jawbone. Painful and may require periodontal surgery and a crown.
  • Vertical Furcation Cracks: Occur in the roots, usually affecting the nerve. Root canal therapy and a crown can often save the tooth.
  • Oblique Root Cracks: Damage is below the gum line and often below the jawbone. Extraction is usually required, though root canal therapy may help temporarily.
  • Vertical Apical Root Cracks: Occur at the tip of the root. Root canal therapy may reduce pain, but extraction is commonly chosen due to discomfort.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the severity and location of the crack:

  • Root Canal Therapy: Used when the pulp, nerves, or blood vessels are affected. The pulp is removed, the space filled with gutta-percha, and a crown or filling stabilizes the tooth.
  • Extraction: When the crack is too severe, the tooth is removed. Restorative options include bridges, dental implants, or partial dentures to restore function and appearance.

If you have any questions or concerns about cracked teeth, please contact our office for a consultation.