Cracked Tooth

Signs You May Have a Cracked Tooth

Not all cracks are visible or painful, but some warning signs include:

• Pain when biting or chewing, especially when releasing pressure
• Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks
• Swelling around the affected tooth
• Intermittent discomfort that comes and goes
• A visible line or shadow on the tooth

Ignoring a cracked tooth can allow bacteria to enter the inner layers, increasing the risk of infection or tooth loss. Seeking early treatment can prevent further damage and preserve your tooth.

Common Causes of Cracked Teeth

Cracked teeth can result from:

• Biting hard foods (nuts, ice, hard candy)
• Teeth grinding (bruxism) or excessive pressure
• Trauma or injury (sports accidents, falls)
• Large fillings that weaken tooth structure
• Temperature extremes (drinking something hot after eating ice cream)
• Aging and wear over time

No matter the cause, our team will assess the extent of the crack and recommend the best solution for your situation.

Our Approach to Cracked Tooth Repair

At Avonhead Dental, we take a step-by-step approach to diagnosing and treating cracked teeth:

Step 1: Consultation & X-Ray Diagnosis

We begin with a detailed examination and x-rays (or 3D scans, if necessary) to determine:
✔ The location and depth of the crack
✔ Whether the tooth’s nerve is affected
✔ The best treatment options for repair

If the crack is small and superficial, a bonded filling may be sufficient. However, deeper cracks may require a crown or root canal treatment.

Step 2: Tooth Repair & Strengthening

Once we determine the best approach, we remove any damaged areas of the tooth to reveal a strong, healthy base for reconstruction.

Treatment options may include:

• Dental Bonding (For Minor Cracks) – A tooth-coloured resin is applied to seal the crack and restore the tooth’s appearance and function.
• Dental Crown (For Larger Cracks) – A custom-made crown (cap) is placed over the tooth to strengthen and protect it. We offer same-day Cerec crowns for convenience.
• Root Canal Treatment (If the Nerve is Affected) – If the crack extends into the pulp (inner part of the tooth), a root canal may be needed before placing a crown.

Step 3: Final Restoration & Prevention

Once the tooth is repaired, we ensure the restoration blends seamlessly with your natural teeth, providing strength, durability, and comfort.

To prevent future cracks, we may recommend:
✔ Wearing a custom nightguard if you grind your teeth
✔ Avoiding extremely hard foods
✔ Maintaining regular dental check-ups to monitor your teeth

What Happens If a Cracked Tooth Is Left Untreated?

A small crack may not seem serious at first, but without treatment, it can:
⚠ Expand and worsen over time, making repair more difficult
⚠ Cause infections that lead to abscesses or tooth loss
⚠ Result in nerve damage, requiring more extensive treatment

Early intervention can save your tooth and prevent pain.

Book an Appointment for a Cracked Tooth Today!

If you suspect you have a cracked tooth, don’t wait for the pain to worsen. At Avonhead Dental, we offer expert care and same-day treatment options to restore your smile.

📅 Call us now or book an appointment online for a consultation!