What Does a Dentist Do for a Cracked Tooth?

If you've ever cracked a tooth, you know how alarming and painful it can be. The sharp pain, the worry about what comes next, and the fear of further damage can be overwhelming. I remember when it happened to me for the first time—I was eating something hard and suddenly felt a sharp pain in my molar. It wasn’t just a small crack; it was a significant fracture that caused a lot of discomfort. I had no idea what to expect from a dentist, but as it turns out, dental professionals have several effective ways to fix cracked teeth, depending on the severity and type of crack. Here's a deeper dive into what a dentist does for a cracked tooth and how you can care for it.

1. Understanding the Types of Cracked Teeth

Before diving into the treatments, it’s important to understand that not all cracked teeth are the same. The severity and location of the crack will determine the approach a dentist takes. Some cracks are minor and barely noticeable, while others can be deep and cause significant pain. Let me walk you through the most common types of cracked teeth.

1.1 Craze Lines

Craze lines are tiny, shallow cracks that typically affect the outer enamel of the tooth. These cracks usually don’t cause pain, but they can make your teeth look unattractive. I had a few craze lines on my teeth, and my dentist told me they are quite common, especially with age. These cracks don’t typically require treatment unless they progress into deeper fractures.

1.2 Fractured Cusp

A fractured cusp occurs when a part of the chewing surface of your tooth breaks off. This type of crack may or may not cause pain, depending on whether the fracture exposes the inner nerves of the tooth. I once had a fractured cusp after biting into something hard, and my dentist was able to repair it with a dental filling.

1.3 Split Tooth

A split tooth is a more serious crack where the tooth is literally divided into two pieces. This typically happens due to deep fractures over time or from trauma. This type of crack is often very painful, and the tooth may need to be extracted if it cannot be repaired. I learned this the hard way when a molar became so damaged that a root canal and crown were necessary to save it.

1.4 Vertical Root Fracture

Vertical root fractures run from the top of the tooth down toward the root, often below the gum line. These are harder to detect and are often caused by pressure from clenching or grinding teeth. Vertical root fractures usually require root canal therapy or, in some cases, tooth extraction. Luckily, I never had to experience this type of crack, but I’ve known people who’ve had to deal with it, and the treatment can be quite involved.

2. Treatment Options for Cracked Teeth

Now that we understand the different types of cracked teeth, let's explore the treatment options available. Depending on the type and severity of the crack, your dentist will recommend the best course of action. Here are the most common treatments I’ve learned about from my own experience and from talking to dental professionals.

2.1 Dental Fillings

If the crack is small or superficial, a dental filling might be all you need. Dental fillings are used to restore the tooth to its original shape and protect it from further damage. I’ve had a few fillings for minor cracks, and they were quick and easy. The dentist simply cleans out the crack and fills it with a material that matches the color of your tooth.

2.2 Dental Bonding

For cracks that are more noticeable or located on the surface of a tooth, dental bonding might be used. During this procedure, the dentist applies a tooth-colored resin to the cracked area. This material hardens and is shaped to blend seamlessly with the rest of the tooth. Dental bonding was used for a minor chip I had, and it worked wonders—my tooth looked good as new!

2.3 Crowns

If the crack is more severe but the tooth is still functional, your dentist may recommend a dental crown. Crowns are caps that cover the entire tooth to restore its strength and appearance. I needed a crown for a cracked tooth a few years ago. The process involves filing down the tooth, making a mold, and placing the crown on top to protect the tooth from further damage. It took a couple of visits, but the result was well worth it, as my tooth felt as strong as before the crack.

2.4 Root Canal Treatment

If the crack extends into the root of the tooth, your dentist may need to perform a root canal. This treatment involves removing the infected tissue inside the tooth, cleaning it out, and then filling the root canal to prevent further infection. While root canals have a reputation for being scary, I can assure you that the procedure wasn’t as bad as I expected. In fact, it helped save my tooth from extraction, and I now have a functional, pain-free tooth thanks to the root canal and a crown.

2.5 Tooth Extraction

In the worst-case scenario, if the crack is too severe to fix or the tooth cannot be saved, your dentist may recommend extraction. This usually happens with a vertical root fracture or a severely split tooth. While it’s a last resort, it’s sometimes necessary for the overall health of your mouth. Fortunately, I haven’t had to experience this yet, but I’ve heard it can be followed by a dental implant or bridge to restore your smile.

3. Preventing Future Cracks

While I’ve learned a lot about how dentists treat cracked teeth, I’ve also come to realize that prevention is key. I started taking extra care to avoid situations where I could damage my teeth. Here are some tips that have helped me, and might help you too, in preventing future cracks:

3.1 Wear a Mouthguard

If you play contact sports or grind your teeth at night, wearing a mouthguard can protect your teeth from trauma or excessive pressure. I use a nightguard to prevent damage from grinding, and it’s worked wonders in preserving my teeth.

3.2 Avoid Hard Foods

Eating hard foods, such as ice, nuts, or hard candies, can lead to cracks. I now try to be more mindful about what I bite into and avoid foods that could potentially cause damage. Cutting hard foods into smaller pieces has been a helpful way to protect my teeth.

3.3 Regular Dental Visits

Regular dental check-ups are crucial in identifying potential problems before they become serious. I make it a point to see my dentist at least twice a year, which helps catch any cracks early on and prevent further damage.

Cracked teeth can be a serious concern, but with the right care and attention, they can usually be repaired without too much trouble. If you’ve experienced a cracked tooth or are worried about the condition of your teeth, don’t hesitate to visit your dentist. Early intervention can save your teeth and prevent further damage. For more information or to find a trusted dental provider near you, visit Dentistry Toothtruth.