Sharp pain when biting may be a cracked tooth! Know the symptoms and treatment options.

What is a cracked tooth?

Cracked teeth are those in which the tooth structure is broken or cracked. This can be caused by a number of factors, including chewing too hard, advanced tooth decay, or an accident. Left untreated, it can lead to a broken tooth or even tooth loss.

A cracked tooth is a break in the tooth that may not be visible to the naked eye, but causes pain when biting or chewing, especially a sharp pain when biting, which is a specific sign of this problem.

Causes of cracked teeth

  • Chew hard objects such as ice, bones, and crunchy objects.

  • Unconscious teeth grinding

  • Untreated deep cavities

  • Brittle teeth that have undergone root canal treatment

  • Accident with strong impact to the face

Warning signs that you may have a cracked tooth

  • Sharp pain when biting or chewing

  • Tooth sensitivity in specific areas, especially when eating hot or cold foods

  • Pressure-sensitive teeth

  • Cracks are visible to the naked eye (in some cases).

  • Intermittent pain without known cause

  • There may be no symptoms at all in the early stages.

Diagnosis methods

Dentists will use specific methods such as:

  • Dental Microscope

  • X-ray film or CBCT

  • Spot bite force test

There are many types of cracked teeth.

1. Cracks in the enamel (Craze Lines)

These are small cracks that are only on the surface of the tooth. They usually do not cause any symptoms and do not require treatment.

2. Cracked Tooth

Deep cracks that may extend into the tooth’s pulp are often painful or sensitive.

3. Split Tooth

Caused by a deep crack that breaks the tooth into two pieces, tooth extraction or dental implant treatment must be considered.

4. Vertical Root Fracture

It is often found in teeth that have had root canal treatment. There may be no obvious symptoms but there is repeated pus in the gums.

How to treat a cracked tooth

Types of cracked teeth Treatment guidelines
Cracks on the tooth surface Polishing / Monitoring
Crack in the middle of the tooth Dental fillings / crowns
Spread to the nerve cavity Root canal treatment + crown
Tooth is separated or cracked deep to the root Tooth extraction + dental implant

If you suspect a cracked tooth, what should you do?

  1. Stop chewing on hard objects such as ice or bones.

  2. Avoid using the suspicious tooth.

  3. Visit your dentist for a diagnosis using a magnifying glass or x-ray film.

  4. Develop individualized treatment plans to prevent tooth fracture.

Why is early treatment important?

  • Helps prevent teeth from cracking or falling out.

  • Reduce the risk of root cavity infection

  • Reduce long-term treatment costs

  • Preserve your real teeth for as long as possible