Ask the Dental Experts

What do you do when a tooth cracks?

Some minor craze lines seen in teeth need no attention at all. Other teeth have symptomatic cracks that cause sensitivity or pain and need immediate attention. Since most cracks or fractures do not show up on radiographs (x-rays), these problems can be difficult to figure out.·

Craze lines are tiny cracks that are superficial - primarily in the outer enamel layer of the teeth. These are common in adult teeth, and they need no treatment. They are the result of "mileage - wear and tear" on the teeth. These are often seen on the anterior teeth.·

Asymptomatic cracks that do not hurt are difficult to evaluate. Many times it is important to reinforce these teeth early, BEFORE they become a problem.

Symptomatic cracks cause pain that can vary from minor sensitivity to a throbbing toothache.Commonly it’s not until teeth become painful that the dentist gets involved. A crack can make a tooth sensitive due to movement of the fractured edges and leakage into the pulp.

Treatment of the tooth that hurts can vary - a bonded filling or a crown can reinforce the tooth - more serious damage to the nerve of a tooth requires root canal treatment to save the tooth.

Occasionally a tooth that has a fracture in it that cannot be fixed at all and must be extracted. Does your tooth give a "zing" when you bite? Do you clench your teeth so hard that there are visible cracks in your back teeth? Are your teeth very sensitive to hot or cold? If so, don’t waste any time - problems develop quickly. Have it checked out by your dentist as soon as possible.