Cracked Tooth? Signs, Treatment Options, And Preventing Future Fractures
Felt a sharp zing when you bit down or sipped something cold? That could be a cracked tooth. Some cracks are harmless craze lines; others need timely care to prevent pain, infection, or breakage. Here’s how to spot the difference—and what we can do to protect your smile.
Common Signs Of A Cracked Tooth
Pain when releasing bite pressure
Intermittent sensitivity to cold or sweet
A chipped edge you can feel with your tongue
Swelling or tenderness around one tooth
Darkening of a single tooth after trauma
Because symptoms can come and go, cracked teeth are notorious for “hiding” until tested and photographed. We combine bite tests, transillumination, and imaging to pinpoint problems accurately.
Types Of Cracks (And Why They Matter)
Craze Lines: Shallow, in enamel only; no treatment needed beyond polishing.
Fractured Cusp: A corner breaks off, often from a big old filling—commonly treated with an onlay or crown.
Crack Extending Into Dentin: This threatens the nerve; a crown is typically recommended, and a root canal may be needed if the nerve is involved.
Split Tooth: A full separation; prognosis depends on how far the crack extends.
Vertical Root Fracture: Often not salvageable; extraction and dental implant replacement may be ideal.
Why Teeth Crack
Large, aging fillings, nighttime grinding (bruxism), chewing ice, unpopped popcorn kernels, and sudden trauma can all create stress lines that deepen over time. Even “perfect” teeth can crack under heavy forces or accidents.
Treatment Options We Offer
Bonding Or Small Onlay for limited fractures to restore shape and seal exposed areas.
Full-Coverage Crown to brace the tooth against flexing and future propagation.
Root Canal + Crown if the nerve is inflamed or infected.
Extraction + Implant/Bridge if the crack is too deep to save.
We’ll be clear about success likelihoods and costs so you can choose intelligently.
Managing Pain Right Now
Until you’re seen, avoid chewing on the sensitive side, choose softer foods, and take over-the-counter pain relief as directed. Cold compresses help with swelling after trauma. If you notice facial swelling or fever, call promptly.
Preventing Future Cracks
Nightguard: Custom guards distribute forces if you clench or grind.
Upgrade Old, Oversized Fillings: Replacing them with an onlay or crown reduces fracture risk.
Habits Audit: Skip ice chewing and be cautious with hard snacks.
Mouthguard For Sports: Especially for contact or fast-moving activities.
Our North Seattle Approach
We’ll photograph and scan the tooth, review bite forces, and pick the most conservative option that reliably protects your long-term function. When replacement is necessary, implant-supported crowns provide stability and a natural look.
Explore more on our Services page or check times on Schedule Online. Financing questions? Visit Financing to see flexible options.
Think you’ve cracked a tooth? Call Rain City Dentistry at (206) 526-1985 to Book an Appointment for prompt, protective care.
