What is a Fracture Tooth?

A cracked tooth happens when your tooth is damaged and develops a small break, crack, or fracture. Sometimes, the crack is so tiny that it doesn’t cause any problems right away. Other times, the tooth can break into pieces or split completely. A severely cracked tooth can be a dental emergency and needs immediate care.

You can get a crack in any tooth, but cracks are most common in your upper front teeth and the back molars of your lower jaw (mandibular molars). Dentists also refer to cracked teeth as Cracked Tooth Syndrome (CTS) or a fractured tooth. Cracks can develop in different parts of the tooth, and each type may require a different treatment approach.

Types of Cracked Teeth

Dentists generally classify cracked teeth into five main categories:

• Cracked Tooth: A vertical crack that runs from the chewing surface down toward your gum line — sometimes it even extends into the root.

• Craze Lines (Hairline Cracks): Small, thin cracks in the outer enamel that usually don’t cause pain or need treatment.

• Fractured Cusp: This type happens when a crack forms around a dental filling; it’s usually not very painful.

• Split Tooth: A severe crack that splits your tooth into two separate parts and may extend below the gum line.

• Vertical Root Fracture: This crack starts below the gum line and moves upward toward the tooth’s surface. It often doesn’t cause noticeable symptoms until the pulp gets infected.

Is a Cracked Tooth Serious?

It can be. A crack in your tooth allows bacteria to enter the inner pulp, which can lead to a painful tooth abscess. If left untreated, an abscess can spread infection to your jawbone, facial muscles, or even your neck. This is why early diagnosis and treatment are so important.

Symptoms of a Cracked Tooth

Not every cracked tooth causes symptoms, but common signs include:

• Sharp pain when you bite down or chew

• Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods

• Swelling around the affected tooth

• Toothache that comes and goes

If an infection develops, you may also notice:

• Bad breath

• Persistent tooth pain

• Fever

• Swollen gums or lymph nodes

What Causes Cracked Teeth?

Cracked teeth can happen for many reasons, such as:

• Aging: Teeth naturally weaken over time. People over 50 are more likely to experience cracks.

• Biting Hard Foods: Ice, hard candy, or unpopped popcorn kernels can easily crack your teeth.

• Dental Treatments: Large fillings or root canals without crowns can weaken a tooth’s structure.

• Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): Habitual grinding can create small fractures over time.

• Trauma: Falls, sports injuries, or accidents can result in cracked or broken teeth.

How is a Cracked Tooth Diagnosed?

Your dentist will:

• Ask about your symptoms and any possible causes

• Have you bite on a stick or object to locate the source of pain

• Examine your tooth and gums for signs of cracks or inflammation

• Use a bright light (transillumination) or staining dye to detect hairline fractures

• Take X-rays or a 3D cone beam CT scan to spot hidden fractures and bone loss

If needed, your dentist may refer you to an endodontist, a specialist in treating tooth pulp and root issues.

How is a Cracked Tooth Treated?

Treatment depends on the type and severity of the crack:

• Dental Bonding: Tooth-colored resin fills small cracks.

• Dental Contouring: The dentist smooths rough edges or adjusts how your teeth come together.

• Dental Crown: A porcelain or ceramic cap covers and protects the cracked tooth.

• Dental Veneers: Thin shells cover the front surface to hide and protect cracks.

• Root Canal: If the crack extends into the pulp, a root canal can remove infection and save the tooth.

• Tooth Extraction: If the damage is severe and cannot be repaired, the tooth may need to be removed and replaced with a dental implant or bridge.

How Long Does It Take to Fix a Cracked Tooth?

Treatment times vary:

• Crowns: Sometimes done in a single visit, but usually require multiple appointments.

• Root Canals: Typically done in one or two visits.

• Veneers: Usually take a few weeks to create and fit.

• Implants: Can take several months if an extraction and implant placement are needed.

Can You Fix a Cracked Tooth at Home?

No — home remedies can’t fix a cracked tooth. But you can manage discomfort by:

• Rinsing with warm salt water

• Applying an ice pack outside your mouth to reduce swelling

• Taking over-the-counter pain relievers like NSAIDs

Always see a dentist as soon as possible if you suspect a crack.

What’s the Outlook for a Cracked Tooth?

With prompt treatment, many cracked teeth can be saved and last for years. However, some cracks may grow over time and could eventually lead to tooth loss if not treated properly.

How Can You Prevent Cracked Teeth?

While not all cracks can be prevented, you can lower your risk by:

• Practicing good oral hygiene and seeing your dentist regularly

• Wearing a mouthguard for contact sports or activities with a risk of falls

• Avoiding chewing on hard foods, ice, or non-food objects

• Not using your teeth as tools to open packaging

When Should You See a Dentist?

If you notice pain when biting, sensitivity, or other symptoms of a cracked tooth, don’t wait. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent more serious issues and help preserve your natural smile.