A cracked tooth is a serious problem that requires immediate attention. If not properly treated, it may have adverse effects on one’s health. Fortunately, root canals and crowns may help treat severe cases of cracked teeth. Root canals and crowns are available at Desert Bloom Dentistry in Safford and the surrounding area. We may be able to help save your cracked tooth. Call us today at (928) 428-1617 to schedule an appointment and learn more.
There are five kinds of cracked teeth: craze lines, fractured cusps, cracks extending into the gum line, split teeth, and vertical root fractures. Each type shows different symptoms: - Craze lines have tiny, painless cracks in the enamel and typically do not require treatment. - Fractured cusps occur around dental fillings without affecting the pulp and are generally painless. - Cracks that reach the gum line often require extraction, but may be salvageable if the crack has not extended below the gum. - Split teeth have cracks extending from the surface below the gum line and usually cannot be saved as a whole. - Vertical root fractures begin below the gum line and extend upward. Patients may experience pain when chewing or biting, tooth sensitivity, swelling of the gum around the affected tooth, and intermittent pain.
Cracked tooth syndrome (CTS) is a condition in which a patient has a crack too small to be seen on an X-ray or one that is hidden under the gum. It most commonly affects molars. Symptoms include intermittent tooth sensitivity and pain when biting. CTS pain differs from cavity pain in that it comes and goes. There is no single cause of CTS, but certain patients are more prone to it: those with malocclusions that place excess pressure on one tooth, patients who grind or clench their teeth, those with large fillings, or those who have already had root canal treatment. Because CTS is difficult to diagnose, patients may experience unexplained symptoms for months.
The best treatment method for a cracked tooth depends on its location and extent. Teeth with minor cracks may be treated with glue, plastic resin (bonding), fillings, or crowns. In more severe cases, root canal treatment may be necessary. During a root canal procedure, the endodontist removes infected or inflamed pulp, cleans and shapes the root canal, and fills it. A crown is then placed on the tooth to protect and restore functionality. Once restored, the treated tooth functions like any natural tooth.
If a cracked tooth is not treated in time, it may lead to pulp necrosis, where the tissue inside the tooth dies, potentially causing tooth loss. Teeth with cracks extending below the gum line are often beyond repair and require extraction. While modern replacement options are excellent, it is best to save a natural tooth whenever possible. Patients should seek endodontic evaluation as soon as they suspect a cracked tooth. Early detection is critical for effective treatment, and endodontic surgery may be an option for more severe cases. Desert Bloom Dentistry can help determine the best course of action on a case-by-case basis.
Unlike broken bones, fractures in a cracked tooth do not heal themselves. Cracks may worsen over time, leading to total tooth loss. Crowns protect treated teeth, but they are not infallible. Endodontic retreatment is possible if a treated tooth does not heal properly or becomes reinfected. Proper aftercare is as important as the treatment itself. Patients should manage any post-treatment discomfort with pain medication as directed and follow all post-op instructions to avoid worsening the crack. Desert Bloom Dentistry provides detailed aftercare guidance to ensure the best outcomes.
