Protect your natural tooth with expert cracked tooth treatment at ReGen Endodontics. Dr. Alabbas Hussain and Dr. Sarah Hussain, both board-certified endodontists, use advanced imaging and microscopic technology to diagnose and treat cracks before they worsen. We curate precise treatments to relieve pain, prevent infection, and preserve your smile.
Protect Your Tooth From Further Damage
Cracked tooth treatment is a specialized approach to diagnosing and managing fractures that occur within a tooth’s structure. At ReGen Endodontics, we use advanced technology, such as operating microscopes and 3D imaging, to detect even the smallest cracks. Your treatment may involve smoothing minor cracks, protecting the tooth with a crown, or root canal therapy. Our endodontists tailor every treatment to your specific needs, focusing on relieving pain, preventing infection, and saving your natural tooth whenever possible.
Signs & Symptoms Indicating You Need Cracked Tooth Treatment:
- Pain when biting or chewing on one side
- Sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks
- Sharp pain when releasing biting pressure
- Swelling around the affected tooth or gum
- Discomfort that comes and goes without warning
- Difficulty pinpointing which tooth is causing pain
- Irritation of the gum tissue near the tooth
- Visible crack or chip in the tooth surface
The Crucial Importance of Early Detection
Spotting a cracked tooth early can mean the difference between saving your tooth and losing it. Cracks often start small and may cause mild or occasional discomfort, making them easy to ignore. But without treatment, the damage can spread, leading to infection, chronic pain, or even the need for a tooth extraction. At ReGen Endodontics, we use advanced imaging and microscopes to catch cracks others might miss. If you’re experiencing unexplained dental pain, early detection gives you the best chance to preserve your natural tooth.
Types of Cracked Teeth
Craze Lines
Craze lines are tiny cracks that only affect the outermost layer of the tooth’s enamel. They’re extremely common, especially in adult teeth, and are usually a cosmetic concern rather than a clinical one. These do not require treatment, but your endodontist may monitor them during regular evaluations to ensure they don’t progress.
Fractured Cusps
A fractured cusp occurs when a portion of the chewing surface breaks away, often around a dental filling. This type of crack rarely affects the pulp, so it usually doesn’t cause pain. Your dentist can typically restore the tooth with a crown or filling, and a root canal is often unnecessary unless the fracture extends deep into the tooth.
Cracked Teeth
A true cracked tooth has a vertical fracture that starts at the chewing surface and extends toward the root. This type of crack often causes pain when chewing or releasing pressure. If the pulp is involved, root canal therapy is typically recommended to relieve symptoms, stop infection, and preserve the tooth from complete extraction.
Split Teeth
When a vertical crack travels through the tooth, splitting it into distinct segments, it’s considered a split tooth. This is usually the result of an untreated cracked tooth that has progressed over time. In most cases, split teeth cannot be saved and may need to be extracted.
Benefits of Cracked Tooth Treatment at ReGen Endodontics:
- Access to board-certified endodontists with microsurgical experience
- Use of Zeiss operating microscope for enhanced crack detection
- High-resolution CBCT imaging to visualize internal tooth structure
- Laser-assisted disinfection for deeper, more effective canal cleaning
- Direct communication with your endodontist before and after treatment
- Focus on saving your natural tooth whenever possible
- Transparent explanation of costs and insurance coverage
Consultation
Your visit begins with a thorough evaluation by one of our board-certified endodontists. We utilize advanced diagnostic tools, including 3D CBCT and high-powered surgical microscopes, to detect even the smallest fractures. Because cracks can be difficult to locate, we’ll perform a series of clinical tests, including bite assessments and thermal sensitivity tests, to pinpoint the source of your discomfort and determine the extent of the crack.
Your Cracked Tooth Treatment Experience
Treatment
Once we’ve confirmed the diagnosis, your treatment plan will depend on the type and severity of the crack. Superficial cracks may not require intervention, while deeper cracks that extend into the pulp chamber may require root canal therapy. During the procedure, we’ll carefully remove the inflamed or infected pulp, thoroughly clean and disinfect the canal system, and seal the canals to prevent reinfection. The tooth is then prepared for restoration.
Recovery
You may experience mild soreness or sensitivity, which typically subsides within a few days. We’ll provide clear aftercare instructions and are always available should questions or concerns arise. Most patients return to normal function quickly, especially with the added protection of a well-fitted crown. With proper care, a treated cracked tooth can function normally.
Cracked Tooth Treatment FAQs
Can a Cracked Tooth Heal on Its Own?
No, a cracked tooth cannot heal naturally. Enamel and dentin do not regenerate, so the crack will likely worsen over time if left untreated. Early intervention is key to preventing tooth loss.
Will I Always Need a Root Canal for a Cracked Tooth?
Not always. Treatment depends on the depth and location of the crack. If it only affects the enamel or outer dentin, a crown or filling may be sufficient. But if the crack extends into the pulp, a root canal will likely be necessary to remove damaged tissue and prevent infection.
Can a Cracked Tooth Be Saved?
Yes, in many cases, a cracked tooth can be saved, especially if it’s diagnosed early. At ReGen Endodontics, we use cutting-edge imaging and microscopic tools to evaluate the crack and determine the best course of action. Our goal is always to preserve your natural tooth.
What Happens if I Don’t Treat a Cracked Tooth?
If left untreated, a cracked tooth can become infected, cause chronic pain, or fracture further, sometimes beyond the point of saving. In some cases, extraction becomes the only option. Seeking prompt treatment gives you the best chance of saving your tooth.
Preserve Your Smile With Cracked Tooth Treatment
ReGen Endodontics is committed to saving your natural teeth with compassionate care. Using state-of-the-art technology like surgical microscopes, Drs. Alabbas and Sarah Hussain deliver precise treatments that relieve pain and prevent further damage. Schedule a consultation for cracked tooth treatment in Morrisville or Garner today and let us help restore your smile.
