Cracked Teeth Treatment
A cracked tooth in Hickory NC and Statesville NC often starts as a minor inconvenience—maybe a twinge when you chew or a flash of pain when you drink something cold. Over time, though, that small problem can become a big one. Cracks create pathways for bacteria to enter, leading to infection, persistent pain, and sometimes even tooth loss. Endodontic treatment at one of our Robert Scott Nance, D.D.S., M.S., P.A.'s multiple locations provides targeted solutions to repair the damage, eliminate discomfort, and protect your natural teeth.
How Teeth Develop Cracks
Every day wear and tear, accidents, or even habits like clenching and grinding can cause teeth to crack. Some of the most common causes include:
- Pressure from nighttime grinding or jaw clenching
- Biting down on hard foods such as nuts, popcorn kernels, or ice
- Large fillings or restorations that weaken the tooth’s natural structure
- Sports injuries or sudden trauma
- Age-related changes in enamel strength
Once a tooth is cracked, it won’t heal on its own. Professional care is the only way to prevent the problem from progressing.
Different Types of Cracked Teeth
The type of crack determines the right treatment. Common categories include:
- Hairline cracks (craze lines): Tiny surface cracks that usually don’t require treatment.
- Fractured cusp: A piece of the chewing surface breaks away, often around an old filling.
- Cracked tooth: A split that extends deeper toward the root, often requiring endodontic care.
- Split tooth: A tooth separated into distinct pieces, usually not restorable.
- Vertical root fracture: A crack starting in the root and extending upward, often difficult to detect without advanced imaging.
Endodontists use specialized diagnostic tools to identify the exact type of crack and design the best treatment plan.
Why Endodontists Treat Cracked Teeth Best
Cracks can be sneaky. They may not show up clearly on X-rays, and symptoms often come and go. Endodontists have the training and technology—such as operating microscopes and 3D scans—to spot even the smallest fractures. Their expertise allows them to treat not only the surface damage but also any infection that may have reached the pulp and root canals.
Treatment Options For Cracked Teeth
Depending on the severity of the crack, your endodontist may recommend:
- Root Canal Therapy: Removes infected pulp and stabilizes the tooth.
- Crown Placement: Protects and reinforces the tooth’s structure.
- Endodontic Surgery: Addresses cracks and infection that extend into the root.
- Extraction: Necessary only when the crack is too severe to save the tooth.
The primary goal is always to preserve your natural tooth whenever possible.
Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
If you have a cracked tooth, symptoms may include:
- Sharp pain while chewing or biting
- Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
- Gum swelling near the affected tooth
- Pain that comes and goes unexpectedly
Ignoring these warning signs can lead to more complex problems, including infection and bone loss.
Why Early Treatment Matters
Prompt treatment for cracked teeth can save you time, money, and unnecessary discomfort. Early care helps:
- Relieve pain before it worsens
- Prevent infection from spreading
- Preserve natural tooth structure
- Reduce the need for extraction and costly replacements
Protect Your Teeth With Expert Care
A cracked tooth doesn’t have to mean losing your smile. With advanced endodontic techniques, we can relieve your pain, treat the damage, and help you keep your natural teeth for years to come.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of a cracked tooth, contact us today to schedule your consultation at one of our locations in Hickory NC or Statesville NC and take the first step toward relief.
