Cracked Teeth

Cracked teeth show a variety of symptoms, including erratic pain when chewing, possibly with release of biting pressure,

or pain when your tooth is exposed to temperature

extremes. In many cases, the pain may come and go.

Types of Cracks
Exploring different cracks and their treatment options

There are many different types of cracked teeth. The treatment and outcome for your tooth depends on the type, location, and severity of the crack.

Craze lines are tiny cracks that affect only the outer enamel. These cracks are extremely common in adult teeth. Craze lines are very shallow, cause no pain, and are of no concern beyond appearances.

This crack extends from the chewing surface of the tooth vertically towards the root. Sometimes the crack may extend below the gum line, and in severe instances, into the root. A cracked tooth is not completely separated into two distinct segments. Because of the position of the crack, damage to the pulp is common. Root canal treatment is frequently needed to treat the injured pulp. Your dentist will then restore your tooth with a full crown to bind and protect the cracked tooth.

Early diagnosis is important. Even with high magnification and special lighting, it is sometimes difficult to determine the extent of the crack. A cracked tooth that is not treated will progressively worsen, eventually resulting in the loss of the tooth. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential in saving these teeth.

A split tooth is often the result of the long term progression of a cracked tooth. A split tooth is identified by a crack with distinct segments that can be separated. A split tooth can never be saved intact. The position and extent of the crack, however, will determine whether any portion of the tooth can be saved. In rare instances, endodontic treatment and a crown or other restoration by your dentist may be used to save a portion of the tooth.

Vertical root fractures are cracks that begin in the root of the tooth and extend toward the chewing surface. They often show minimal signs and symptoms and may therefore go unnoticed for some time. Vertical root fractures are often discovered when the surrounding bone and gum become infected. Treatment usually involves extraction of the tooth. However, endodontic surgery is sometimes appropriate if a portion of the tooth can be saved by removal of the fractured root.

Patient Information

Prior to your first visit with us, we ask that you take a few moments to complete our new patient forms. This will make your initial visit much less time consuming.

Our Office Location

Berks Endodontics is conveniently located in Wyomissing, near the Berkshire Mall.

1150 Berkshire Blvd, Suite #120 Wyomissing PA 19610

Cracked Teeth

Types of Cracks Exploring different cracks and their treatment options

Types of Cracks
Exploring different cracks and their treatment options