Cracked Teeth: Symptoms and Concerns

Cracked teeth can cause a variety of symptoms, including pain while chewing, sensitivity to hot or cold, or sharp discomfort when biting. Pain may come and go, making it difficult to pinpoint the source. Sometimes, discomfort develops after a crown or final restoration has been placed.

Chewing can cause the cracked sections of the tooth to move, irritating the pulp inside. When biting pressure is released, the crack can snap back quickly, triggering sharp pain. Over time, the pulp may become damaged, causing constant pain even when not chewing. Cracks can also lead to pulp infection, which may spread to the surrounding bone and gum.

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Types of Cracks

Craze Lines

These are tiny cracks affecting only the outer enamel, most commonly seen in adults. Craze lines are superficial and typically do not pose any concern.

Fractured Cusp or Crown

When a cusp becomes weakened, it may fracture. The cusp might break off or be removed by a general dentist. Often, the pulp is not affected, so a root canal may not be necessary. The tooth is usually restored with a full crown by your general dentist.

Cracked Tooth

This crack starts at the chewing surface and extends vertically toward the root, sometimes below the gum line. Pulp damage is common, making root canal treatment at Glendale Endodontics & Microsurgery usually necessary. If left untreated, the crack will worsen and may lead to tooth loss, making early detection crucial.

Split Tooth

A split tooth typically results from an untreated cracked tooth. It is identifiable by a crack dividing the tooth into distinct segments. While the entire tooth cannot be preserved, portions may sometimes be saved with endodontic retreatment and restoration by your general dentist.

Vertical Root Fracture

This type of fracture begins at the root and extends toward the chewing surface. Symptoms are often minimal and can go unnoticed. Treatment may involve endodontic surgery to save part of the tooth, but in many cases, extraction is necessary.

Need Treatment for a Cracked Tooth?

If you suspect a cracked tooth in Glendale, California, call (818) 242-8955 . Dr. David Abdelmalak provides timely, comfortable treatment to restore your tooth and get you smiling again.