Cracked Tooth Treatment
If your mouth is in pain, or you’re worried about a visible crack in your tooth, contact our endodontists today. With our research-based special treatment, root canal therapy may not only alleviate uncomfortable symptoms but also effectively seal the crack, thereby extending the overall lifespan of the affected tooth.
Signs and symptoms of a cracked tooth often include:
- Pain when biting or clenching your teeth together
- Sensitivity to cold and/or hot
- Chronic or spontaneous pain
- Bumps on your gums
What Causes Cracked Teeth?
Cracked teeth can happen for a number of reasons. Some of the most common causes include:
- Age: Teeth can become more brittle as we get older, making them more susceptible to cracks.
- Bruxism: Grinding or clenching your teeth, especially at night, puts significant pressure on them.
- Large fillings: A large filling can weaken the overall structure of a tooth.
- Trauma: A blow to the mouth from an accident, fall, or sports injury can easily crack a tooth.
- Hard foods: Biting down on something hard, like ice, a popcorn kernel, or hard candy, can cause a tooth to fracture.
What are the Symptoms of Cracked Teeth?
A cracked tooth isn't always easy to recognize, especially when the damage is too small to see with the naked eye. Some people experience sharp, sudden discomfort, while others notice occasional sensitivity that seems to come and go. Depending on the location and severity of the crack, you may experience cracked tooth symptoms such as:
- Sharp pain when biting
- Pain when releasing pressure
- Hot or cold sensitivity
- Intermittent toothaches
- Discomfort when chewing
- Swollen or tender gums
- Sensitivity to sweet foods
Not every cracked tooth causes noticeable symptoms, and discomfort can sometimes be difficult to pinpoint. If you've noticed changes in how your teeth feel, our team can carefully examine your smile, identify the source of your symptoms, and recommend the most appropriate treatment to help protect your oral health.
Cape Fear Endodontics Reviews
I am so pleased I choose Dr.Mihle to do my root canals. He was so gentle, professional, I had only mild discomfort. His assistant informed me every step through the procedure. A well oiled working office.Highly recommend .
I could not have been more pleased.
My second visit first was 2008 and now last week, it was a great experience since I’m terrified of dentist but they made it painless and that’s why I came back for my other root canal. I really don’t like pain. I will tell everyone about my experience
The entire team was incredibly kind and helpful. I’m am an anxious dental patient and they explained everything before, during and after the procedure.
Excellent care from start to finish. I never write reviews but love this practice so much I had to share how great they are.To start, Chris in the front office was amazing to work with from scheduling to receiving a care plan, so professional and easy. Went first for in person consultation on potential root canal which was thorough and very educational. No hard sell, just quality care dialogue and consultative approach from Dr Mihle. Ended up needing my first root canal which was painless and so comfortable I fell asleep in the chair. Thank you Dr Mihle and all the exceptional staff.
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Total Reviews
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Average Rating
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you have a cracked tooth without any visible signs?
Yes, and this is actually quite common. Some cracks are too small to be seen but can still cause symptoms like sensitivity when biting or temperature changes. Because these cracks are not always visible, evaluation often relies on your symptoms along with imaging and clinical testing. Our team will look for subtle indicators that help confirm what is going on.
Is cracking a molar more serious than other teeth?
Molars are typically more vulnerable to complications after cracking because they absorb the most force during chewing. A crack in this area can progress faster if left untreated. That said, any cracked tooth deserves attention. Our team will evaluate the situation and recommend the best way to protect the tooth.
Does a cracked tooth always need to be extracted?
No, many cracked teeth can be treated and preserved, especially when caught early. Depending on the severity, options may include bonding, a crown, or root canal therapy. Extraction is typically only considered when the crack extends too far to reliably restore the tooth. Our team will carefully evaluate the extent of the damage and walk you through your options so you can make an informed decision.
Treat Your Cracked Tooth
Living with a sharp twinge every time you bite or sip something cold can make everyday life miserable, and waiting only gives a crack more time to spread. Our endodontists can find the source of your discomfort and recommend the right treatment to protect your tooth. Book a consultation at Cape Fear Endodontics in Wilmington, NC, today.