Dealing with a cracked tooth can be painful and confusing. At London Dental Specialists, we understand your concerns about fracture management and treatment options. Our experts assess each case individually, determining whether your cracked tooth requires a simple filling, dental crown, bonding procedure, or root canal treatment. The right approach depends on the severity and location of the fracture—whether it affects only the enamel, extends to the dentin, or reaches the pulp. We follow established protocols to save your tooth whenever possible, though severe fractures extending below the gum line may require extraction. Our specialists prioritise both restoring function and preserving your smile's appearance with minimally invasive techniques.
What is a cracked tooth and how is it diagnosed?
A cracked tooth is a tooth that has developed a fracture or crack that may extend from the chewing surface towards the root. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough examination by a specialist at London Dental Specialists, which may include visual inspection, dental x-rays, and special tests such as bite tests or dye staining. Sometimes, a dental microscope may be used to detect hairline cracks that aren't visible to the naked eye. Symptoms often include pain when chewing, sensitivity to temperature, and discomfort when releasing biting pressure.
What are the different types of tooth fractures?
There are several types of tooth fractures, each requiring different treatment approaches:
- Craze lines: Tiny cracks that only affect the outer enamel and typically don't require treatment
- Fractured cusps: Breaks in the chewing surface that usually don't affect the pulp
- Cracked tooth: A crack that extends from the chewing surface towards the root but hasn't separated the tooth into pieces
- Split tooth: A tooth that has split into two separate segments
- Vertical root fracture: Cracks that begin in the root and extend towards the chewing surface
What treatment options are available for a cracked tooth at London Dental Specialists?
London Dental Specialists offers several treatment options depending on the severity and location of the crack:
- Dental bonding: For minor cracks, composite resin can be applied to restore the tooth's appearance and function
- Dental crown: A porcelain or ceramic cap that covers the entire tooth to prevent the crack from spreading
- Root canal therapy: If the crack has extended into the pulp, a root canal may be necessary to remove infected tissue before placing a crown
- Dental veneers: Custom-made shells that cover the front surface of teeth with minor cracks
- Extraction: In cases where the crack extends below the gumline and the tooth cannot be saved
Is a cracked tooth a dental emergency?
Yes, a cracked tooth should be considered a dental emergency that requires prompt attention. Even if pain is minimal, cracks can worsen over time and lead to more serious complications such as infection or tooth loss. London Dental Specialists recommends contacting them immediately if you suspect you have a cracked tooth. While waiting for your appointment, avoid chewing on the affected side, rinse with warm salt water, and take over-the-counter pain relievers if necessary.
How long does treatment for a cracked tooth take?
The treatment duration for a cracked tooth at London Dental Specialists varies depending on the severity of the crack and the chosen treatment method. Simple bonding procedures can typically be completed in a single 60-90 minute appointment. Crown placement usually requires two visits spaced 1-2 weeks apart: one for preparation and fitting a temporary crown, and another for placing the permanent crown. Root canal therapy may add an additional 1-2 appointments before crown placement. Your specialist will provide a personalised treatment timeline during your consultation.
How can I prevent cracked teeth?
To prevent cracked teeth, London Dental Specialists recommends:
- Wearing a custom-fitted mouthguard during sports or if you grind your teeth at night
- Avoiding chewing on hard objects like ice, popcorn kernels, or pen caps
- Not using your teeth as tools to open packages or bottles
- Maintaining regular dental check-ups to identify and address early signs of cracks
- Addressing teeth grinding (bruxism) with appropriate treatments
- Following a proper oral hygiene routine to maintain overall dental health
What is the success rate of cracked tooth treatments?
The success rate of cracked tooth treatments at London Dental Specialists is generally high, particularly when the condition is diagnosed and treated early. For cracks that haven't extended below the gumline, treatments like crowns and root canals have success rates of approximately 85-95% with proper care and regular check-ups. The prognosis depends on the location, direction, and extent of the crack. During your consultation, your specialist will assess your specific situation and provide a more accurate prognosis based on your individual case.
Will my dental insurance cover cracked tooth treatment?
Most dental insurance plans provide some coverage for cracked tooth treatments, as they are typically considered necessary procedures rather than cosmetic. The extent of coverage varies depending on your specific plan and the treatment required. Simple bonding or fillings are usually covered at a higher percentage than crowns or root canals. London Dental Specialists' administrative team can help verify your insurance benefits and explain any out-of-pocket costs before beginning treatment. For patients without insurance, we offer various payment options to make treatment accessible.
How soon can I eat normally after cracked tooth treatment?
After cracked tooth treatment at London Dental Specialists, eating restrictions vary based on the procedure performed. For dental bonding, you can typically eat normally once the anaesthetic wears off, though you should avoid very hard foods for 24-48 hours. With crown placement, you should avoid sticky or hard foods until your permanent crown is placed. After root canal therapy, it's advisable to avoid chewing on the treated tooth until the permanent restoration is in place. Your specialist will provide specific post-treatment instructions tailored to your procedure to ensure optimal healing and longevity of the restoration.
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