Fig. 3: The tooth on the right has a crack that stops in the "crown" of the tooth. This tooth can usually be saved if treated immediately. The tooth sometimes needs root canal treatment, but will always need a crown(cap) placed. The crown holds the tooth together and slows down crack propagation. The tooth on the left has a crack that has reached the root surface. This tooth is not worth saving.
What is a cracked tooth? Teeth undergo all kinds of stresses everyday. Biting forces, severe temperature changes, and bacterial invasion are just a few examples that can cause cracks in teeth. Grinding and bruxism are very common causes of cracked teeth as well. The most common cracked teeth are lower molars. Cracks often form around previously placed fillings that can slightly expand or contract after initial placement. Tiny cracks can start forming that are not even visible to the human eye. Once the crack becomes bigger, problems can arise. Symptoms include temperature sensitivity and/or pain on biting (especially during the release action). In many cases the crack can be treated with a full coverage restoration, like a crown. If the crack has been present for a long time, there may have been irreversible damage to the nerve. In these cases a root canal treatment and crown is needed to save the tooth. These teeth are often worth saving and may still last a very long time if treated properly. However, the long term prognosis (chance of sticking around) is decreased if the crack continues to spread to the root of the tooth. If the root becomes cracked, it harbors bacteria that we are unable to clean out and the tooth has to be extracted. It is not necessarily easy to identify a cracked tooth. The crack can be microscopic and may only be found once the infection in the jaw starts to form. Once the infection starts the dentist may be able to find the problem area with a routine exam and xray. In some cases, it may take years to see that a problem exists so it is important to tell your dentist if you experience any pain to biting or hot/cold temperatures.
DISCLAIMER: This information contains general guidelines only. If you have a tooth that you think needs treatment, please have your dentist or specialist conduct a proper exam to determine your specific options.
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