Although the discomfort of the symptoms is very real, a cracked tooth can be a difficult dental problem to diagnose and pinpoint its location. Even a crack that is microscopic can cause number of symptoms including pain when biting or chewing, sensitivity to hot or cold, or significant discomfort as biting pressure is released.
Chewing on a cracked tooth can be particularly uncomfortable. This is because pieces of the tooth may move and irritate the dental pulp. Eventually this repeated irritation can cause permanent damage to the pulp. The tooth may then consistently hurt and pulpal involvement may worsen. Continued irritation coupled with bacterial contamination seeping in through the crack can lead to a dental infection which can spread from the tooth to the surrounding bone and soft tissues.
Treatment of a cracked tooth depends on the extent of the crack and the degree of pulpal involvement. Symptomatic cases that receive root canal treatment and crowns before the crack propagates too far have a favorable prognosis. Teeth that are considered restorable are those where the crack is confined to the crown portion of the tooth. Complete vertical root fractures have a poor prognosis.
Craze Lines
Craze lines are shallow cracks that only affect the outer enamel of your teeth. They are common in adults and are most often merely regarded as a cosmetic imperfection.
Fractured Cusp
Cracked Tooth
Although, it is sometimes difficult to determine the extent of the crack, especially when it occurs under a filling or crown, early diagnosis is important. A cracked tooth that is not treated will progressively worsen and may reach the Split Tooth stage that resulting an unfavorable prognosis for the tooth.
Split Tooth
Vertical Root Fracture
Our goal is to help every patient experience the benefits of good oral health and a beautiful smile. We value the trust you have placed in our office and strive to provide solutions that meet your dental needs and expectations of care.