Cracked teeth can happen for many reasons, from everyday wear to unexpected injuries. Let’s explore what causes cracked teeth, symptoms to watch out for, treatment options, and when extraction becomes necessary. 

The good news is that not every cracked tooth has to be extracted. In many cases, treatments like dental crowns or root canals can save your tooth and restore its strength. But if the crack runs deep into the root or below the gumline, extraction may be the best option to protect your overall oral health.

Unsure what to do about a cracked tooth? The friendly team at Peak View Dental in Castle Rock, CO can assess your situation and guide you toward the safest, healthiest solution.

Understanding Cracked Teeth

What Is a Cracked Tooth?

A cracked tooth happens when there’s a partial fracture or a complete break in the enamel, dentin, or root. Unlike cavities, which slowly wear down the tooth, cracks usually occur from physical force, injury, or long-term wear and tear.

Common Types of Tooth Cracks

• Craze Lines: Tiny surface cracks that affect only the enamel. They are harmless and often require no treatment.
• Fractured Cusp: Occurs around a filling. Usually not painful and often treated with a crown.
• Split Tooth: A crack that extends from the surface down into the root. In most cases, it cannot be saved.
• Vertical Root Fracture: Starts at the root and travels upward. Often requires extraction since it weakens the tooth significantly.

Signs and Symptoms of a Cracked Tooth

Recognizing a cracked tooth early can save it from extraction. Common symptoms include:

• Pain while chewing or biting
• Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
• Swollen or tender gums
  Visible lines, chips, or fractures in the tooth

Does My Cracked Tooth Need to Be Pulled?

Not necessarily. A cracked tooth doesn’t always mean you’ll lose it, but the right treatment depends on how deep and severe the crack is. In many cases, your dentist can save the tooth with restorative procedures, but in others, extraction may be the safest option.

For minor cracks, such as craze lines or small fractured cusps, treatment is usually simple. Your dentist may smooth the surface, place a filling, or fit a dental crown to protect the tooth and restore its strength.

These types of cracks are often painless and can usually be addressed without invasive procedures. However, when a crack extends below the gumline or deep into the root, the situation changes. These severe cracks compromise the structural integrity of the tooth, and even advanced treatments like crowns or root canals may not be enough to save it. In those cases, extraction is often the best choice to prevent infection and protect your overall oral health.

The bottom line: the earlier you get evaluated, the better your chances of saving the tooth. Prompt treatment can make all the difference.

Treatment Options for a Cracked Tooth

The right treatment for a cracked tooth depends on where the crack is, how deep it goes, and whether the tooth’s root is affected. In many cases, your dentist can save the tooth with restorative treatments. In more severe situations, extraction may be necessary.

Here are the most common treatment options:

• Dental bonding and fillings – Ideal for small, shallow cracks. A tooth-colored resin is used to fill or seal the crack, restoring appearance and function.
• Dental crowns – A custom-made cap that fits over the damaged tooth, protecting it from further stress and restoring strength.
• Root canal therapy – Used when the crack has reached the pulp (nerve) of the tooth. The infected tissue is removed, the canal is cleaned, and the tooth is sealed and protected with a crown.
• Extraction and tooth replacement – If the crack extends below the gumline or into the root, the tooth may need to be removed. After extraction, replacement options include dental implants, bridges, or partial dentures.

Risks of Not Treating a Cracked Tooth

Leaving a cracked tooth untreated can have serious consequences. Bacteria can seep into the crack and cause an infection that spreads to the gums and jawbone and the crack may worsen until the tooth is no longer salvageable. Oral infections can affect nearby teeth and even enter the bloodstream.

Can the Tooth Be Saved?

Modern dentistry has made it possible to save many cracked teeth that once would have been pulled.

• Dental crowns can protect and restore cracked teeth.
• Root canals can preserve teeth with internal pulp damage.
• Innovative bonding techniques can seal small cracks and restore function.

Success Rates: Studies show that teeth treated with crowns or root canals have high long-term survival rates, often lasting decades with proper care.

What to Expect if a Tooth Needs to Be Pulled

If a cracked tooth can’t be saved, your dentist may recommend extraction to protect your overall oral health. Here’s what you can expect:

The Extraction Process

Your dentist will start with an X-ray to evaluate the tooth, the surrounding bone, and any potential complications. Local anesthesia is used to numb the area, so you’ll remain comfortable during the procedure. Once numb, the tooth is carefully loosened and gently removed.

Recovery and Healing

Most patients recover within 7 to 10 days. To promote faster healing and avoid complications:

• Avoid smoking, drinking through straws, or eating hard foods.
• Use ice packs to reduce swelling.
• Take over-the-counter pain relievers as directed.

Your dentist will also provide personalized aftercare instructions to ensure smooth healing.

FAQs About Cracked Teeth

Can a cracked tooth heal on its own?

No, once a tooth is cracked, it cannot heal naturally. Only dental treatment can restore its strength.

Is it okay to leave a cracked tooth untreated?

No, ignoring a cracked tooth can lead to infection, abscesses, and eventual tooth loss.

How do dentists decide whether to pull or save a tooth?

They consider the crack’s depth, location, and whether it extends below the gumline or into the root.

How long can you live with a cracked tooth?

While you might live with it for months, untreated cracks often worsen, making treatment more complex and costly.

What is the best replacement for a pulled tooth?

Dental implants are considered the gold standard, though bridges and partial dentures are also options.

Can you eat normally after a cracked tooth is treated?

Yes, most patients return to normal eating within days or weeks, depending on the treatment.

Protect Your Smile with Peak View Dental

Not every cracked tooth needs to be pulled. The sooner you get it checked, the better your chances of saving it. At Peak View Dental in Castle Rock, CO, our experienced team will carefully evaluate your tooth and recommend the best treatment to restore your oral health and protect your smile.

Our goal is to keep your smile healthy and strong with care that’s personalized, gentle, and effective. If you suspect you have a cracked tooth, don’t wait as early treatment can make all the difference. Schedule a visit today and let us help you find the right solution for you!