Cracked Tooth Syndrome: Signs, Causes, And How To Treat

Cracked tooth syndrome occurs when a tooth develops small, often undetectable cracks that can cause pain when chewing. These cracks can result from various factors, such as teeth grinding, biting hard objects, or sudden temperature changes in the mouth. If left untreated, the cracks can worsen and lead to more significant dental issues.

Symptoms of Cracked Tooth Syndrome

You may experience sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, as well as discomfort that comes and goes. Swollen gums near the affected tooth and pain that is difficult to pinpoint are common signs. If you suspect a cracked tooth, consult a dentist for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Sharp pain when biting down or chewing on hard foods is a common symptom of cracked tooth syndrome.
Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, especially when the stimuli come into contact with the affected tooth, can indicate a cracked tooth.
Discomfort or pain when releasing the bite pressure can be a sign of a cracked tooth.
Swelling or tenderness in the gums around the cracked tooth may occur in some cases.
Difficulty pinpointing the exact source of tooth pain, as it might be intermittent or triggered by specific movements, could be a symptom of a cracked tooth.

Get a second opinion from trusted experts and makeconfident, informed decisions.

Get Second Opinion

Causes of Cracked Tooth Syndrome

Additionally, aging and natural wear and tear on the teeth can also contribute to the development of this condition. Proper dental care and regular check-ups can help prevent cracked tooth syndrome.

Cracked tooth syndrome can be caused by biting down on hard objects like ice, pens, or hard candies, leading to stress on the tooth structure.
Bruxism, or teeth grinding, is a common cause of cracked tooth syndrome as the excessive pressure placed on the teeth can result in cracks over time.
Trauma to the face or mouth, such as a sports injury or accident, can cause a tooth to crack due to the sudden impact.
Large fillings or restorations in a tooth can weaken the tooth structure, making it more susceptible to cracking under normal biting forces.

Types of Cracked Tooth Syndrome

Cracked tooth syndrome can present in different types, including craze lines, fractured cusp, cracked tooth, and split tooth. Craze lines are small cracks in the enamel, while a fractured cusp involves a piece of the tooth breaking off. A cracked tooth extends vertically towards the root, and a split tooth is a severe form where the tooth is split into two separate parts.

Craze lines: These are superficial cracks that affect the enamel of the tooth and are usually harmless, causing cosmetic concerns rather than pain or sensitivity.
Fractured cusp: This type of cracked tooth syndrome involves a portion of the tooth breaking off, typically affecting the pointed chewing surfaces of the molars.
Split tooth: A split tooth is a more severe condition where the crack extends vertically from the chewing surface down towards the root, potentially leading to the tooth splitting into distinct segments.
Vertical root fracture: This type of crack starts at the root of the tooth and progresses upwards towards the chewing surface, often causing pain and requiring extraction or root canal therapy.

Risk Factors

Cracked tooth syndrome can be caused by various risk factors, including teeth grinding, clenching, chewing hard objects, and sudden temperature changes in the mouth. Individuals with large fillings, root canal treatments, or teeth weakened by decay are also at higher risk.

Grinding or clenching teeth, also known as bruxism, can increase the risk of cracked tooth syndrome due to the excessive pressure placed on the teeth.
Having large fillings or restorations in the teeth can weaken the structure of the tooth and make it more susceptible to cracking.
Chewing on hard objects such as ice, pens, or hard candies can lead to cracks in the teeth over time.
Trauma to the mouth, such as a sports injury or accident, can cause a tooth to crack.
Poor dental hygiene and untreated decay can weaken the tooth enamel, making it more prone to cracking.

Your health is everything - prioritize your well-being today.

Schedule Your Appointment

Diagnosis of Cracked Tooth Syndrome

They will also ask about your symptoms and any recent dental trauma. By combining these steps, your dentist can accurately diagnose and recommend the best treatment for your cracked tooth.

Clinical Examination: A dentist will visually inspect the tooth, assess symptoms reported by the patient, and perform various tests to identify the location and extent of the crack.
X-rays: Dental X-rays can help in detecting a cracked tooth by showing changes in the tooth's structure, such as fractures or areas of infection around the tooth root.
Transillumination: This diagnostic method involves shining a bright light on the tooth to reveal any cracks or fractures that may not be easily visible during a regular examination.
Bite Test: By applying specific pressure on different areas of the tooth while biting down on a dental instrument, a dentist can determine if there is pain or sensitivity associated with a cracked tooth.

Treatment for Cracked Tooth Syndrome

Treatment options for cracked tooth syndrome may include dental bonding, dental crowns, root canal therapy, or tooth extraction, depending on the severity of the crack. Your dentist will carefully evaluate your case to determine the most suitable treatment for you.

Dental bonding: A common treatment for cracked tooth syndrome involves applying a tooth-colored resin to the affected area to restore the tooth's structure and appearance.
Dental crown: If the crack is extensive, a dental crown may be recommended to cover the tooth and provide added protection, preventing further damage.
Root canal therapy: In cases where the crack extends into the pulp of the tooth, a root canal may be necessary to remove the damaged tissue and alleviate pain.
Tooth extraction: In severe cases where the crack is deep and irreparable, extraction of the tooth may be considered to prevent infection and preserve the health of surrounding teeth.

Find Our Specialists

Book Doctor Appointment

Name*

Mobile Number*

I agree to the Medicover Privacy Policy

International Patient Services

Still have questions? Speak with our experts now!

040-68334455

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there specific signs that indicate cracked tooth syndrome?

Common signs of cracked tooth syndrome include intermittent pain while biting or chewing, sensitivity to hot or cold foods, and discomfort when releasing biting pressure.

Are there specific things I should or shouldn't do when dealing with cracked tooth syndrome?

Avoid chewing on hard objects, practice good oral hygiene, and see a dentist promptly for evaluation and treatment to prevent worsening of the condition.