Cracked Teeth
Cracked teeth don't always present clearly. You might feel a sharp pain when biting down, then nothing at all. You might notice sensitivity to hot or cold that comes and goes.
These inconsistent symptoms are common with cracked teeth, which is also why many people don’t realize that something needs attention. The sooner you seek treatment from an endodontist, the better the outcome.
Why See an Endodontist for a Cracked Tooth?
Endodontists specialize in saving teeth. At Advanced Root Canal Specialists, we use advanced imaging technology like CBCT cone beam scans, fiber optic transillumination, and dye testing to find cracks that standard x-rays and visual exams often miss. Then, we tailor treatment to the type and extent of the crack, giving you a clear, honest picture of what your tooth needs and what to expect.
Types of Tooth Cracks We Treat
Not all cracks are the same. Here are some examples of what our endodontists may see and the typical treatment approach for each:
- Craze lines — These tiny surface cracks appear on the outer tooth enamel. They are common in adult teeth and rarely require treatment beyond monitoring.
- Fractured cusp — A piece of the tooth’s chewing surface breaks off, but the crack doesn't affect the pulp. Pain relief often occurs quickly after crown treatment.
- Cracked tooth — A crack that extends from the chewing surface toward the root. If it hasn't reached the pulp, a crown may be enough. If the pulp is involved, root canal treatment is needed first. Early treatment gives this tooth the best chance.
- Split tooth — A crack has divided the tooth into two segments. Whether the tooth can be saved depends on where the split is located. In some cases, part of the tooth can be preserved.
- Vertical root fracture — A crack that begins at the root and travels upward. These often go undetected for some time. Extraction is sometimes necessary, though endodontic surgery may be an option in certain cases.
Call for Help with a Cracked Tooth
If you experience pain when biting, sensitivity to temperature, or any discomfort that comes and goes, call us at (410) 772-9600. Advanced Root Canal Specialists offers early morning and evening hours Monday through Friday, with same-day appointments available for dental emergencies.
We believe in full transparency when it comes to costs, so we will provide detailed insurance breakdowns and estimated out-of-pocket costs ahead of time whenever possible.
ARCS serves patients from all over Maryland, including Ellicott City, Columbia, Baltimore, Rockville, Laurel, and beyond.