What Do I Do If My Tooth Is Cracked Underneath My Crown?

A cracked tooth under a crown is an unpleasant surprise and a cause for concern. It’s often difficult to know what to do and where to turn, but there are solutions and treatment options available.

Cracked tooth syndrome is a situation in which a tooth is cracked either in the enamel, dentin, or root. It can be caused by aging, trauma, grinding, or other conditions. The good news is that there are several possible treatments to repair the tooth and restore it to its previous state.

Depending on the severity and location of the crack, the dentist may recommend a variety of solutions, such as bonding, a filling, or a crown. With the right care and attention, a cracked tooth beneath a crown can be restored, and you can once again enjoy the full use of your tooth.

What is a Cracked Tooth?

Cracked tooth syndrome, or simply known as a cracked tooth, is a condition in which a tooth is cracked in one or more of its parts: enamel, dentin, and/or root. The cracking can be caused by a variety of factors, such as aging, trauma, grinding, or other conditions. Symptoms of cracked tooth syndrome can include pain when eating, sensitivity to cold and hot foods, gum inflammation, and jaw muscle spasms.

When left untreated, a cracked tooth can have serious implications for oral health. The crack can become larger over time and lead to infections or further damage to the tooth. It is important to seek prompt treatment from a dentist to avoid such problems.

Causes of a Cracked Tooth

There are many potential causes of cracked tooth syndrome. The most common cause is aging. Over time, the enamel of the tooth can weaken and become prone to cracking.

Other causes include trauma, such as a blow to the face or an accident, grinding or clenching of the teeth, and other conditions, such as periodontal disease or cavities.

Treatments for Cracked Tooth Syndrome

The treatments for cracked tooth syndrome vary depending on the severity and location of the crack. The dentist may recommend one of the following treatments: bonding, a filling, or a crown.

Bonding as a Treatment Option

Bonding is a simple and cost-effective procedure that can be used to repair a cracked tooth. The dentist will use composite material to fill in the cracks and smooth out the surface of the tooth. This material is matched to the color of the tooth and is designed to last for many years.

Filling as a Treatment Option

Another treatment option for cracked tooth syndrome is filling. The dentist will first remove any decay or other material from the cracked area. Then, a filling material is used to fill in the crack and restore the shape of the tooth. The material used for a filling is usually a composite resin, and it is matched to the color of the tooth.

Crown as a Treatment Option

For more serious cases of cracked tooth syndrome, the dentist may recommend a crown. This cap is placed over the tooth to protect it from further damage. The crown is made of a material such as porcelain or metal, and it is designed to match the color of the existing teeth. A crown can last for many years and provide a secure and protective covering for the cracked tooth.

Tips for Preventing a Cracked Tooth

There are several steps that can be taken to prevent a cracked tooth. The most important one is to practice good oral hygiene. Brush twice a day and floss daily to remove plaque and food debris from the teeth. Avoid grinding or clenching the teeth, and be sure to wear a mouthguard when participating in contact sports. It is also important to visit the dentist on a regular basis for check-ups and cleanings. The dentist can help identify potential problems and recommend treatments before they become serious.

Fix a Cracked Tooth

A cracked tooth is a cause for concern. However, with the right care and attention, it can be treated, and the tooth can be restored. The dentist may recommend one of several treatments, such as bonding, a filling, or a crown.

With the right care and attention, a cracked tooth beneath a crown can be restored and you can once again enjoy the full use of your tooth.

Madison Dental Arts provides dental crowns and other dental services including teeth whitening, dental bridges, periodontal care in New York.