How to Treat a Cracked Tooth

Cracked teeth are a common dental issue, and our experienced team is equipped to provide the personalized care you need to restore your smile and prevent long-term complications.

The treatment for a cracked tooth depends on the location, size, and severity of the crack. During your visit, our skilled dentists will perform a thorough examination and discuss the best options for your specific situation:

• Minor Cracks (Craze Lines): These tiny, surface-level cracks often don’t require treatment beyond routine observation and good oral hygiene. Our team will monitor these areas during your regular checkups to ensure they don’t progress.
• Moderate Cracks: For cracks that are more pronounced but do not reach the tooth’s root, we may recommend dental bonding, using a tooth-colored resin to fill and seal the crack. Alternatively, a custom dental crown can be placed over the tooth to protect it and restore its natural function and appearance.
• Severe Cracks: If the crack extends into the tooth’s pulp (the inner tissue containing nerves and blood vessels), root canal therapy may be necessary. Our dental professionals will carefully remove the damaged tissue, clean and seal the tooth, and place a crown to reinforce its structure.
• Extensive Damage: If the crack extends below the gum line or splits the tooth, extraction may be the only option. Our compassionate team will guide you through the process and discuss tooth replacement solutions, such as dental implants, to restore your oral health.

Why Early Treatment Matters

Early diagnosis and treatment can often save your tooth and prevent further issues like infection or tooth loss. Our commitment to comprehensive care means we’ll help you maintain a healthy smile with regular checkups and personalized preventive advice.

If you suspect you have a cracked tooth, it’s important not to delay seeking professional dental care. The severity and location of the crack, along with your specific symptoms, can impact how urgent your situation may be. However, our dental experts generally recommend scheduling an appointment as soon as you notice any signs of a cracked tooth.

Over time, a crack can deepen or spread, increasing your risk for infection, pain, or even tooth loss. Bacteria can enter the crack and infect the dental pulp (the nerve center of your tooth), which may lead to an abscess or significant pain. Sometimes, you may not experience any pain at first, but the underlying damage can steadily progress without your knowledge.

We encourage you not to wait more than a few days to a week to contact our office if you notice a cracked tooth, even if symptoms are mild. Early evaluation and treatment can help prevent complications, relieve discomfort, and improve the chances of saving your tooth.

At Encino Advanced Dentistry, our team understands that even a small crack in your tooth can lead to significant dental problems if left untreated. Initially, you may only notice mild discomfort or sensitivity when eating hot or cold foods. However, if a cracked tooth is not promptly addressed, the damage can worsen over time. As the crack deepens, it creates a pathway for bacteria to enter the inner pulp of your tooth, potentially causing infection. This can result in increased pain, swelling, and, in some cases, the formation of an abscess—a pocket of pus that can spread to surrounding tissues and bone.

Without professional intervention, the structural integrity of your tooth becomes compromised. The crack may widen, making the tooth unstable or causing it to break apart. Chewing can become painful, and the risk of further injury grows. In severe cases, the tooth may be damaged beyond repair and require extraction. Moreover, untreated infections can spread beyond your mouth, leading to serious health complications.

At Encino Advanced Dentistry, we emphasize the importance of early evaluation and treatment to preserve your natural teeth and prevent further issues. Prompt treatment not only alleviates discomfort but also helps avoid complex procedures and reduces the risk of tooth loss or systemic infection.

A cracked tooth can become infected relatively quickly, depending on the depth and location of the crack, as well as your overall oral health. When a tooth cracks, it creates an opening that allows bacteria to enter the inner layers of the tooth—especially the dentin and pulp. Since the pulp contains blood vessels and nerves, an infection can develop rapidly if bacteria reach this area. In some cases, infection can begin within just a few days, particularly if the crack is deep enough to expose the pulp directly.

Common symptoms of an infected tooth include pain, sensitivity to hot or cold, swelling, or even the presence of pus. If you suspect you have a cracked tooth, we recommend scheduling an appointment at Encino Advanced Dentistry right away—even if you are not yet experiencing symptoms. Our dental team is experienced in diagnosing and treating cracked teeth, and prompt care can help prevent infection and avoid the need for more extensive procedures, such as root canals or extractions.

A cracked tooth can cause discomfort, sensitivity, and, if left untreated, may lead to more serious dental issues. At Encino Advanced Dentistry, we understand the urgency and importance of addressing cracked teeth promptly and effectively. Under the expert care of Dr. Alireza Moshaverinia, D.D.S., M.S., Ph.D., F.A.C.P., you’ll receive the highest standard of care using state-of-the-art technology and advanced dental techniques.

Dr. Moshaverinia is renowned for his extensive training and commitment to patient-centered care. When you visit our Encino practice with symptoms of a cracked tooth—such as pain when chewing, sensitivity to temperature, or visible lines on your tooth—you can expect a comprehensive evaluation. Dr. Moshaverinia will perform a meticulous examination, often utilizing digital imaging, to accurately diagnose the type and extent of the crack.

Treatment at Encino Advanced Dentistry is always personalized. Depending on the severity and location of your cracked tooth, Dr. Moshaverinia may recommend:

• Dental bonding or tooth-colored fillings for minor, superficial cracks
• Custom-crafted dental crowns for more significant fractures, restoring both strength and appearance
• Root canal therapy in cases where the crack extends to the pulp or nerve, followed by a protective crown

Throughout your treatment, Dr. Moshaverinia will ensure you are fully informed about your options and comfortable at every step. Our practice uses only the latest, highest-quality materials to ensure your restoration is both durable and natural-looking—seamlessly blending with your smile.

At Encino Advanced Dentistry, we also focus on prevention. Dr. Moshaverinia will educate you on proper oral care techniques and strategies to minimize your risk of future dental injuries, helping you maintain long-term oral health. For more information, contact us or request an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 5363 Balboa Blvd, #434 Encino, CA 91316. We serve patients from Encino CA, Tarzana CA, Van Nuys CA, Sherman Oaks CA, Calabasas CA, and surrounding areas.