How a cracked tooth can feel
A crack can produce sharp or erratic pain while chewing, pain when biting pressure is released, or sensitivity to hot and cold. Symptoms may come and go, which can make the tooth difficult to identify without focused testing.
When the hard outer structure of a tooth flexes along a crack, the pulp inside can become irritated. With time, the tissue may become inflamed or infected, and the surrounding gum and bone can also be affected.
Types of cracked teeth
Craze lines
These shallow lines affect only the outer enamel. They are common in adult teeth, generally do not cause pain, and usually require no treatment beyond a cosmetic discussion if their appearance is a concern.
Fractured cusp
A portion of the chewing surface can break, often around a filling. The pulp is not always damaged, and the tooth may be protected with a new filling or crown.
Cracked tooth
This crack begins on the chewing surface and extends toward the root, but the tooth has not separated into distinct pieces. If the pulp is involved and the crack has not extended too far, root canal treatment followed by a crown may help preserve the tooth. Early diagnosis is important because cracks do not heal and can continue to spread.
Split tooth
A split tooth has separated into distinct segments. The tooth cannot be saved intact, though the location and extent of the split sometimes determine whether a portion can be retained.
Vertical root fracture
This crack begins in the root and extends toward the chewing surface. It may cause few symptoms until the surrounding tissue becomes inflamed or infected. Treatment may involve removing the tooth, or in selected cases, surgery to remove the fractured portion.
A diagnosis built around the individual tooth
Treatment and prognosis depend on the crack’s location, depth, and effect on the pulp and supporting tissues. Dr. Moore will explain what can be seen, what remains uncertain, and whether the tooth has a reasonable chance of long-term function.
Unlike a broken bone, a crack in a tooth does not grow back together. Treatment is intended to protect the tooth, reduce symptoms, and limit further progression when possible.