The recommended type of treatment for a cracked tooth will depend on a few different factors. The most significant factors are the type and severity of the crack and the location of the damage, though dentists will also evaluate the overall health of the tooth, the surrounding tissues, and the patient when establishing treatment plans. The first goal of any cracked tooth treatment is to restore and preserve as much of the natural tooth as possible, restoring its structure and function and, and the optimal route to success requires a thorough evaluation and comprehensive, prompt treatment.
Each tooth is constructed of different layers. The inner layer of dental pulp deep inside the tooth’s root is rich with nerves and blood vessels that keep the tooth alive. This soft dental pulp is surrounded by calcified layers of dentin and cementum that protect the pulp and provide the tooth with structure. Outside the dentin and cementum, encasing the crown of the tooth and providing its luminous appearance, is the protective layer of durable enamel. When minor cracks affect only the enamel layer of a tooth, bonding the area with tooth-colored resin, or using a dental filling composite, can prevent the cracks from worsening and restore the appearance of the tooth. When a crack appears on a deeper layer of the tooth, the structural integrity of the tooth is threatened. A dental crown is often the preferred treatment in these cases. These custom-crafted tooth covers can be designed to match the adjacent natural teeth and fit over a damaged tooth to restore its function and provide strength. For crowns near the back of the mouth, patients may choose to use extremely durable yet visible materials like metal or metal alloys, and for more visible areas, crowns can be crafted of highly realistic porcelain or sturdy ceramic materials.
If a crack is allowed to penetrate into the pulp chamber of the tooth, bacteria can enter the pulp and create infection. Inflammation and infection in the dental pulp, called pulpitis, is extremely painful and often comes with other unpleasant symptoms, and, when left untreated, could lead to the loss of the tooth and also poses the threat of systemic infection. To prevent infection from spreading and attempt to save the tooth, dentists treat these infections with root canal treatments. After removing any inflamed or infected pulp from inside the canals in the tooth’s root, the dentist thoroughly disinfects the area and then fills and seals it to prevent further infection. It’s common for root canal therapy to be followed with a dental crown restoration, which provides additional protection and support to the once-damaged tooth.
Some complex cracks may require surgical intervention in attempts to save the tooth. Dentists can reposition broken tooth fragments and stabilize them with splints or other dental materials, minimizing the risk of further damage and decreasing the likelihood of infection. If cracks are severe, or if they extend below the gum line and the tooth cannot be saved with other measures, it may be necessary to extract the tooth. Tooth extractions are performed by dentists, who conscientiously remove the entire damaged tooth while using a local anesthetic to minimize patient discomfort. Dentists recommend replacing missing teeth for a variety of reasons, and, after extraction, you and your dentist can discuss your options for tooth replacement, which can be determined based on your preferences and clinical needs. Preventing this outcome is always preferable, though, and routine dental checkups, combined with other effective oral health habits, can keep the damage caused by cracked teeth to a minimum.