Sharp and erratic pain:

A cracked tooth may cause sharp or intermittent pain during biting or chewing.

Biting forces can sometimes cause movement around a crack and irritate the tissues within or around the tooth, which may produce pain during biting or when pressure is released.

Pain when eating or drinking:

Some cracked teeth may be sensitive to hot or cold foods and drinks. Temperature sensitivity can have several dental causes, so this symptom alone does not confirm the presence of a crack.

Tooth sensitivity:

Tooth sensitivity can occur with a cracked tooth, but it can also have other causes. Affected teeth may react to temperature, biting forces or certain foods depending on the location and depth of the crack.

Swelling of the gum line:

Swelling or inflammation around a tooth can occur for several reasons, including infection or changes associated with a cracked tooth. A dentist can assess the surrounding gums and tooth structure to determine the cause.

Discomfort that comes and goes:

Pain from a cracked tooth may be intermittent and may occur during biting or with particular foods or drinks. However, symptom patterns vary and cannot reliably distinguish a crack from decay, infection or other dental conditions.

Difficulty in pinpointing the source of pain:

Some patients may find it difficult to identify which tooth is causing the discomfort. Pain may sometimes be felt in nearby teeth or surrounding areas.

Visible signs when tooth cracks:

Some cracks may be visible, while others are difficult to identify. Dental assessment may involve magnification, transillumination, bite testing or other methods depending on the suspected crack.

Bite pain:

A fractured cusp may cause discomfort during biting or chewing. In some cases, a rough or sharp edge may also be noticeable.

Change in colour:

A tooth may change colour for several reasons, including changes within the dental pulp. If a cracked tooth also becomes noticeably darker, dental assessment is appropriate.

If you have persistent pain when biting, sensitivity, swelling or another concern that may be related to a cracked tooth, arrange a dental assessment. Assessment may involve magnification, transillumination, bite testing, dental imaging or other clinical methods. Management depends on the location and extent of the crack, symptoms, pulp condition and remaining tooth structure.

How a Dentist May Manage a Cracked Tooth

Management of a cracked tooth depends on the type, location and extent of the crack and whether the dental pulp or surrounding structures are affected. Below are various treatment options for a cracked tooth, each suitable for different types and severities of cracks.

Dental Bonding or Filling:

For selected minor enamel defects or fractures, dental bonding or another restorative approach may be considered depending on the clinical findings.

Dental Veneers:

Dental veneers may be considered for selected front-tooth concerns where the remaining tooth structure and crack pattern are suitable. Veneers are not appropriate for every cracked tooth.

Dental Crowns:

A dental crown may be considered where the remaining tooth structure and crack pattern are suitable for a full-coverage restoration. The treatment process and number of appointments vary according to the restoration and technique used.

Root Canal Treatment:

If the dental pulp is irreversibly inflamed or infected and the tooth is otherwise suitable for treatment, root canal treatment may be considered. Further restorative treatment depends on the condition of the remaining tooth structure.

Dental Implants:

If a cracked tooth cannot be predictably restored, extraction may be discussed. Where tooth replacement is appropriate, options may include a dental implant, bridge or denture depending on the individual case.

Tooth Extraction:

Tooth extraction may be considered where the crack pattern and remaining tooth structure mean the tooth cannot be predictably restored. A missing tooth does not always need to be replaced, and replacement decisions depend on the tooth location, bite, neighbouring teeth and individual treatment goals.

Endodontic Surgery:

In selected cases, further endodontic assessment may be required after previous root canal treatment. Whether surgery is appropriate depends on the diagnosis, crack location and condition of the tooth.

Maintaining Oral Health:

General oral care includes brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, cleaning between the teeth and attending dental examinations at intervals recommended for your individual needs. Avoid using teeth to bite hard non-food objects such as ice or pens.

The treatment plan depends on the type, location and extent of the crack, pulp condition, remaining tooth structure and other clinical findings. A dentist can discuss which options may be appropriate.

If you have persistent pain when biting, sensitivity, swelling or another concern that may indicate a cracked tooth, contact Radiant Smiles Dental Bundoora to arrange an assessment. The dentist can examine the tooth and discuss appropriate treatment options based on the clinical findings.

You can book an appointment if you would like a cracked or painful tooth assessed.