Cracked Teeth Treatment in Saint Joseph MO
What are the Symptoms of Cracked Teeth?
Cracked teeth demonstrate many types of symptoms, including pain when chewing, temperature sensitivities, or even the release of biting pressure. It is also common for tooth pain to come and go, making it difficult to diagnose the cause of discomfort.
What Happens if I Don’t Treat my Cracked Teeth?
Chewing can cause movement of the cracked pieces of your tooth, and the pulp within the tooth becomes irritated. At the same time, when biting pressure is released, the crack can close quickly, resulting in sharp pain. Eventually, the pulp will become damaged and tooth will consistently hurt, even when you are not chewing. It is possible that cracks can lead to infection of the pulp tissue, which can spread to the bone and gum surrounding the problematic tooth.
Are you ready to smile pain-free again?
To schedule an appointment with us, give our office a call at Northwest Endodontics Office Phone Number 816-364-4422 or use our online contact request form.What are the Types of Cracks in Teeth?

Craze lines
These are tiny cracks that only affect the outer enamel of the tooth. These cracks are more common in adults. These types of cracks are superficial and are usually of no concern.

Fractured Cusp
When a cusp becomes weakened, a fracture may result. The cusp may break off or be removed by a dentist. A fractured cusp rarely damages the pulp, so root canal is not necessary. Your dentist will usually restore the tooth with a full crown.

Treatable Cracked Tooth
This type of crack extends from the chewing surface of the tooth and vertically migrates towards the root. In some cases, the crack may extend below the gum line. It is possible for the crack to extend further into the root. Damage to the pulp is commonplace. In this case, root canal treatment is usually necessary. A cracked tooth that is not treated will worsen, resulting in the loss of the tooth. Therefore, early detection is essential.

Split Tooth
A split tooth is usually the result of an untreated cracked tooth. It can be identified by a crack with distinct segments. This type of tooth can never be saved intact. Yet, the position and extent of the problem will dictate whether any portion of the tooth can be saved. Sometimes, endodontic retreatment by the doctors and restoration by your dentist can be used to save a portion of the tooth.

Vertical Root Fracture
A vertical root fracture begins at the root and extends towards the chewing surface of the tooth. Unfortunately, they show minimal symptoms and may go unnoticed. Treatment involves endodontic surgery if a portion of the tooth can be saved by the removal of the fractured root. Otherwise, the tooth will have to be extracted.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cracked Teeth:
1. What causes a cracked tooth? Cracked teeth can result from a variety of causes, including biting down on hard objects, trauma to the mouth, grinding teeth, or even normal wear and tear over time. A cracked tooth can also happen due to large fillings or other dental work that weakens the tooth structure.
2. How is a cracked tooth treated? Treatment depends on the severity of the crack. Minor cracks may be treated with bonding or a crown, while more severe cracks may require root canal therapy or, in extreme cases, extraction. Dr. Walker will evaluate the crack and recommend the best treatment option for you.
3. Can a cracked tooth heal on its own? No, a cracked tooth cannot heal on its own. If left untreated, the crack may worsen, potentially leading to infection or the need for extraction. Early detection and treatment are essential to avoid further damage.
4. Can a cracked tooth cause an infection? Yes, if a cracked tooth is left untreated, bacteria can enter the crack, leading to an infection in the tooth’s pulp (the inner tissue). This may result in pain, swelling, or abscesses, and may require a root canal or other treatments to prevent further complications.
5. How can I prevent cracked teeth? To reduce the risk of cracking your teeth, avoid chewing on hard objects (like ice or hard candy), wear a mouthguard if you grind your teeth at night, and address any issues with your bite or existing dental work promptly. Regular dental checkups will also help identify any early signs of cracks.
6. Will a cracked tooth affect my smile? If the crack is on a visible tooth, it can affect the appearance of your smile. Depending on the location and severity of the crack, Dr. Walker may recommend a cosmetic solution like bonding, veneers, or crowns to restore the tooth’s appearance.
7. Is treatment for a cracked tooth covered by insurance? Many dental insurance plans do cover treatments for cracked teeth, but coverage may vary based on your specific plan and the type of treatment required. It’s best to check with your insurance provider or our office to understand your coverage options.
Northwest Endodontics
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I am so impressed with Dr. Walker and his staff. Everyone was so professional and kind. The office is very attractive, welcoming and comfortable. I would definitely recommend!
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Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I had a great experience, again, with Dr. Walker, it feels like a filling and I was back to work in no time. Most importantly, no more pain!
- Tina W