Cracked Tooth Syndrome: Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment

By New Dental Center, Al Ain, UAE · Root Canal Treatment

Cracked tooth syndrome is one of the most frustrating dental problems to diagnose. Patients often describe a sharp, sudden pain when biting on something, but the tooth looks perfectly normal and may not show anything on an X-ray. Early diagnosis is important, because cracks tend to grow over time and can eventually split the tooth.

Common Symptoms

The classic sign is a sharp pain when biting down, especially on something hard or grainy, or when releasing the bite. Sensitivity to cold and sweet foods is also common. The pain often comes and goes and can be hard to pinpoint to one tooth, sometimes feeling like it is in the upper or lower jaw generally.

Why Teeth Crack

Heavy chewing forces, grinding and clenching, large fillings that weaken the tooth, and biting on hard objects such as ice, olive pits, or bones can all cause cracks. Teeth that have had root canal treatment without a crown are also more prone to fracture.

How Cracks Are Diagnosed

Your dentist will ask about your symptoms and use tests such as biting on a special instrument, cold testing, magnification and special light to look for crack lines. Removing an old filling can sometimes reveal a crack beneath. A 3D scan may be used in some cases.

Treatment Depends on the Crack

If the crack is limited to the outer part of the tooth, a crown or onlay can hold the tooth together and protect it. If the crack has reached the nerve, root canal treatment followed by a crown is usually needed. If the crack extends down into the root, the tooth may not be saveable and may need extraction.

Protecting Your Teeth

Avoid chewing ice and very hard foods, wear a night guard if you grind your teeth, and have large old fillings reviewed. Getting a cracked tooth treated early gives it the best chance of being saved.

Frequently Asked Questions