Different Types of Cracked Tooth and Procedures Needed for Each

A cracked tooth is not one single condition. Cracks can vary in size, depth, and location, which means treatment can vary too. In many cases, early diagnosis is the key to saving the tooth and preventing more serious pain or damage. Canyon Ridge Dental Specialists highlights several common types of cracked teeth and the procedures typically used for each.
 

Fractured Cusp

A fractured cusp happens when part of the chewing surface becomes weakened and breaks. This type of crack usually does not extend into the pulp, which is the inner tissue of the tooth. Because of that, root canal treatment is often not needed.
 

The usual procedure is to remove or smooth the damaged portion and restore the tooth with a full crown. This helps protect the remaining structure and restore function.
 

Cracked Tooth

A cracked tooth typically begins on the chewing surface and travels vertically toward the root. In some cases, it can extend below the gumline or deepen into the root over time. This type of crack commonly affects the pulp, which is why it often causes discomfort when biting or sensitivity to temperature.
 

When the pulp is involved, root canal treatment is usually necessary. After endodontic care, the tooth is often restored with a crown to strengthen and protect it. Early treatment matters because untreated cracks tend to worsen and may eventually lead to tooth loss.
 

Split Tooth

A split tooth is often the result of an untreated cracked tooth that has progressed. At this stage, the tooth has separated into distinct sections. Because the damage is more severe, the entire tooth usually cannot be saved intact.
 

Treatment depends on how far the crack extends. In some cases, part of the tooth may still be preserved through endodontic treatment and restoration. In others, extraction may be the only predictable option.
 

Vertical Root Fracture

A vertical root fracture starts in the root and moves upward toward the chewing surface. These fractures can be difficult to detect because they often cause minimal symptoms at first. That can delay treatment until infection or bone loss develops around the tooth.
 

If part of the tooth can be preserved, endodontic surgery may be recommended to remove the fractured root portion. If the fracture is too extensive, extraction may be necessary.
 

Common Procedures Used for Cracked Teeth

Treatment for a cracked tooth depends on the type and severity of the fracture. Common procedures include:

• Full crown placement for a fractured cusp

• Root canal therapy for a cracked tooth with pulp involvement

• Endodontic retreatment and restoration when part of a split tooth can be saved

• Endodontic surgery for certain vertical root fractures

• Extraction when the tooth cannot be predictably preserved
  
   

Why Prompt Evaluation Matters

Not every cracked tooth causes constant pain, but even small symptoms should be taken seriously. Pain when chewing, temperature sensitivity, or intermittent discomfort can all point to a crack. Prompt evaluation by an endodontic specialist can help determine whether the tooth can be treated conservatively or needs more advanced care. Canyon Ridge Dental Specialists offers endodontic services across four locations in Phoenix and Scottsdale.
 

Need care for a cracked tooth? Contact Canyon Ridge Dental Specialists in Phoenix and Scottsdale at (480) 538-8100 to schedule an evaluation.