A sudden jolt of pain while chewing or an unexplained toothache might be telling you more than just "visit the dentist." It could be a sign of a cracked tooth, and catching it early might be the difference between saving and losing the tooth. At The Endodontic Office, we specialise in identifying and treating cracked teeth with precision, helping patients relieve discomfort and protect their natural teeth.

What Is a Cracked Tooth?

A cracked tooth is an incomplete fracture that extends into the deeper structures of the tooth, often toward the pulp. Unlike a fully fractured tooth, a crack may be difficult to detect and won’t always appear on X-rays. Cracks usually run vertically and can cause sharp pain, especially when biting down.

What Causes a Cracked Tooth?

• Habitual teeth grinding (bruxism)
• Chewing on hard items like ice, nuts, or pens
• Large fillings that weaken the tooth structure
• Sudden trauma or injury
• Age-related wear

Treatment Options for a Cracked Tooth

At The Endodontic Office, we offer multiple treatment options based on the severity, location, and symptoms of the crack:

1. Crowns

If the crack is mild and doesn’t reach the pulp, we may place a crown to reinforce the tooth and prevent the crack from spreading. In cases of cracked tooth syndrome, a metal band may be used first to check if symptoms subside before deciding on a crown.

2. Root Canal Therapy

When the crack extends into the pulp and causes inflammation or infection, root canal therapy is often necessary. We remove the damaged pulp, clean and seal the canals, and restore the tooth with a crown to prevent further damage.

3. Extraction

Unfortunately, if the crack is too deep or compromises the root, extraction may be the only option. Our team will guide you through tooth replacement options, including implants and bridges.

Post-Operative Care for Cracked Tooth Treatment

Proper post-operative care is essential to promote healing, prevent complications, and protect the tooth from further damage.

1. Immediate Care: First 24 Hours Post-Treatment

• Avoid chewing on the treated tooth. Minimize pressure on the repaired tooth to prevent re-injury.
• Do not eat until the numbness wears off. This helps prevent accidental biting of the tongue, cheek, or lips.
• Follow a soft food diet. Stick to foods like yoghurt, mashed potatoes, soups, eggs, and pasta for the first 24–48 hours.

2. Pain Management

• Mild discomfort is expected. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage soreness.
• If prescribed, take pain medication and antibiotics as directed. Follow your dentist’s instructions carefully to prevent infection and manage pain.

3. Oral Hygiene and Tooth Protection

• Maintain good oral hygiene. Brush and floss gently around the treated tooth to keep the area clean and prevent plaque buildup.
• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush. This minimizes irritation to sensitive gum tissues and the treated area.
• Be cautious when flossing near temporary crowns or fillings. Slide the floss out carefully to avoid dislodging the restoration.

4. Dietary Recommendations

• Eat soft, non-sticky foods. Avoid hard, chewy, crunchy, or sticky items like nuts, candies, gum, or ice that could stress or dislodge the repair.
• Avoid very hot or cold foods initially. Sensitivity to temperature changes is common and usually resolves with healing.
• Minimize sugary snacks and drinks. This helps protect the treated tooth from further decay or damage.

5. Activity Recommendations

• Limit strenuous physical activities. Excessive exercise in the first 24 hours may increase blood flow and discomfort.
• Resume normal activities the following day. Most patients can return to work, school, or regular routines quickly.

6. Protecting the Tooth

• Consider wearing a night guard if recommended. Patients who grind or clench their teeth may need a protective appliance to prevent further cracks.
• Avoid habits like chewing on pens, ice, or hard objects. These can place excessive stress on your teeth and lead to future cracks.
• Be cautious with sports activities. Use a mouthguard during contact sports to protect your dental work and natural teeth.

7. Follow-Up Care

• Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments. Your dentist will assess healing, check the stability of any restorations, and determine if further treatment is necessary.
• Permanent crown placement may be needed. If you have a temporary crown, you’ll need to return for the final restoration to fully protect the tooth.

When to Contact the Clinic

Please contact us immediately if you experience:

• Severe or persistent pain
• Excessive sensitivity to pressure, heat, or cold
• Swelling, signs of infection, or pus near the treated tooth
• The crown, filling, or bonding material becomes loose or dislodged
• Cracks appear to be worsening or spreading

FAQs

Q1: Can a cracked tooth heal on its own?

A: No. Once a tooth is cracked, it cannot heal. Treatment is essential to prevent it from worsening.

Q2: How do I know if I have a cracked tooth?

A: You may experience pain while chewing, sensitivity to temperature, or intermittent discomfort. A clinical exam and imaging are needed for diagnosis.

Q3: Is a root canal always needed for cracked teeth?

A: Not always. Mild cracks can sometimes be treated with a crown alone. If the pulp is involved, a root canal becomes necessary.

Q4: Can a cracked tooth be saved?

A: Yes, many cracked teeth can be preserved with timely intervention and the right treatment.

Q5: What happens if I delay treatment?

A: Delaying can lead to infection, pain, and, ultimately, the loss of the tooth.

If you suspect a cracked tooth, don’t wait for the pain to worsen. Contact The Endodontic Office for expert care and personalised treatment options that prioritise your comfort and dental health.