This guide explains which types of cracks can be repaired, which typically require extraction, and what treatment options exist for each situation.
Types of Tooth Cracks and Their Prognosis
Craze lines (Usually no treatment needed)
- Tiny, superficial cracks in enamel only
- Very common in adults
- Don't cause pain or sensitivity
- Usually just cosmetic concern
- Prognosis: Excellent—tooth is fine
Fractured cusp (Usually savable)
- A piece of the chewing surface breaks off
- Often around a filling
- May or may not reach the nerve
- Treatment: Crown, sometimes root canal first
- Prognosis: Good with treatment
Cracked tooth (Often savable if caught early)
- Crack extends from chewing surface toward root
- May or may not extend into the root
- Causes pain, especially when chewing
- Treatment: Crown, root canal if needed
- Prognosis: Good to fair, depends on crack depth
Split tooth (Usually requires extraction)
- Crack has gone all the way through, separating the tooth
- Often the result of an untreated cracked tooth
- May be able to save part of the tooth
- Treatment: Extraction, possibly partial extraction
- Prognosis: Poor for full tooth survival
Vertical root fracture (Usually requires extraction)
- Crack starts in the root and extends upward
- Often develops after root canal treatment
- May have no symptoms until infection develops
- Treatment: Extraction or root amputation
- Prognosis: Poor—usually cannot be saved
Signs Your Cracked Tooth Might Be Savable
Good indicators:
- Crack doesn't extend below the gum line
- You can't feel movement between tooth segments
- No infection or abscess present
- The tooth has adequate structure remaining
- Quick response when biting on the tooth (localized pain)
- X-rays show the crack doesn't reach the root
What your dentist will check:
- Crack extent using special dye and light
- Probing around the tooth
- X-rays (though cracks don't always show)
- Bite tests to reproduce your symptoms
- Vitality testing of the nerve
When Extraction Is Necessary
Extraction is typically needed when:
- Crack extends vertically below the gum line into the root
- The tooth is split into separate segments
- Severe bone loss around the cracked root
- Multiple cracks are present
- Previous root canal has failed
- Insufficient tooth structure remains for a crown
Why deep cracks can't be fixed:
Once a crack extends into the root, there's no way to seal it. Bacteria can enter, causing infection that won't resolve without removing the tooth. Crowns and fillings can't repair damage below the bone level.
The importance of timing:
A crack that could have been crowned last month might need extraction this month. Cracks don't heal—they only progress. Early treatment gives you the best chance of saving the tooth.
Treatment Options for Savable Cracks
Dental crown ($800-$3,000)
- For cracks that haven't reached the nerve
- Covers and protects the tooth
- Prevents crack from spreading
- Most common treatment for cracked teeth
Root canal + crown ($1,500-$4,500)
- When crack has affected the nerve
- Removes damaged pulp tissue
- Followed by crown for protection
- High success rate for appropriate cases
Bonding ($200-$600)
- For minor cracks and chips
- Less durable than crowns
- Good for front teeth with small damage
- May need replacement over time
Dental onlay ($600-$2,000)
- For cuspal fractures
- More conservative than full crown
- Preserves more tooth structure
After Extraction: Replacement Options
Dental implant ($3,000-$6,000)
- Titanium post acts as new root
- Topped with crown that looks natural
- Best long-term solution
- Preserves bone
- Takes 3-6 months total
Dental bridge ($2,000-$5,000)
- Anchors to adjacent teeth
- Doesn't require surgery
- Good option if adjacent teeth need crowns anyway
- Lasts 10-15 years typically
Partial denture ($500-$2,500)
- Removable replacement
- Most affordable option
- Less natural feeling
- Good temporary solution
Do nothing (not recommended)
- Adjacent teeth can shift
- Bone loss occurs where tooth was
- Bite problems can develop
- Makes future replacement harder
Key Takeaways
If you have a cracked tooth, see a dentist promptly. Waiting only allows the crack to worsen, potentially turning a savable tooth into an extraction case. Early diagnosis gives you the best chance of keeping your natural tooth.
Don't assume the worst. Get an evaluation and learn your options before deciding anything.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a dentist save a cracked tooth?
Many cracked teeth can be saved, depending on the type and extent of the crack. Cracks limited to the crown (above the gum line) can often be treated with a dental crown or root canal and crown. Cracks that extend into the root usually require extraction.
How do I know if my cracked tooth needs to be pulled?
A dentist must evaluate the crack to determine if extraction is needed. Signs that favor extraction include: vertical cracks extending into the root, split tooth segments, severe bone loss, or repeated failed treatments. Only X-rays and clinical examination can determine this.
What happens if you ignore a cracked tooth?
Cracks worsen over time, allowing bacteria to enter and cause infection. A crack that could have been crowned may eventually split, requiring extraction. Pain typically increases, and treatment becomes more extensive and expensive.
Medical Disclaimer
The information provided on Urgent Dental Helper is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is NOT intended to be a substitute for professional medical or dental advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist, physician, or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a dental or medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
