Cracked Teeth

What Is a Cracked Tooth?

A cracked tooth can cause a variety of symptoms, including pain when chewing, sensitivity to hot or cold, or intermittent discomfort. Sometimes the crack is hard to detect, but over time it can lead to pulp damage, infection, or even tooth loss.

Chewing may move the cracked segments, irritating the pulp and triggering sharp pain. If left untreated, the pulp can become permanently damaged, and infection may spread to the surrounding bone and gums.

Early diagnosis and treatment by an endodontist can help save a cracked tooth and relieve pain.

Types of Cracks

Craze lines

Tiny, shallow cracks in the outer enamel.
Common in adults and usually harmless.
Do not require treatment.

Fractured Cusp

Occurs when a portion of the chewing surface breaks off.
Usually does not affect the pulp.
Often treated with a crown to restore strength and function.

Treatable Cracked Tooth

Extends from the chewing surface toward the root, sometimes below the gum line.
Often damages the pulp and may require root canal treatment.
If untreated, the crack can worsen and lead to tooth loss.
Early detection is essential to saving the tooth.

Split Tooth

A severe crack that divides the tooth into distinct segments.
Cannot usually be saved intact, but in some cases endodontic retreatment and restoration may preserve part of the tooth.

Vertical Root Fracture

Starts at the root and extends upward toward the chewing surface.
Symptoms may be minimal, making detection difficult.
Treatment may involve endodontic surgery to remove the fractured portion if possible. In other cases, extraction may be necessary.

Treatment for Cracked Teeth

Root canal therapy may be required if the pulp is inflamed or infected.
Crowns are often placed to protect and restore strength.
Endodontic surgery (apicoectomy) may be needed in certain cases.

Treatment for Cracked Teeth

Root canal therapy may be required if the pulp is inflamed or infected.
Crowns are often placed to protect and restore strength.
Endodontic surgery (apicoectomy) may be needed in certain cases.
If the tooth cannot be saved, replacement options such as dental implants or bridges can restore function and appearance.

Why Choose an Endodontist for Cracked Teeth?

At Endodontics of Gaithersburg, Dr. Ali Eghtesadi specializes in diagnosing and treating cracked teeth. With advanced imaging and treatment techniques, we can identify cracks that might go unnoticed in a regular exam and provide solutions that help save your natural teeth whenever possible.