Cracked Teeth
Diagnosis & Treatment
Signs of a Cracked Tooth
Cracked teeth can cause erratic pain when chewing, or pain when your tooth is exposed to temperature extremes. The pain may come and go, making it difficult to diagnose.
Sharp Pain
When biting or releasing bite.
Sensitivity
To hot or cold foods/drinks.
Sweet Discomfort
Pain when eating sticky/sweet food.
Erratic Pain
Pain that comes and goes.
Types of Cracks
Craze Lines
Tiny cracks that affect only the outer enamel. Common in adults, shallow, and usually no concern.
Fractured Cusp
A piece of the chewing surface breaks off. Rarely damages the pulp. Usually restored with a crown.
Cracked Tooth
Extends from chewing surface toward the root. Pulp damage is common. Root canal often needed to save tooth.
Split Tooth
Result of an untreated cracked tooth. The tooth is split into distinct segments. Often cannot be saved.
Vertical Root Fracture
Begins at the root and extends upward. Often shows minimal symptoms until infection occurs.