Cracked tooth syndrome is a term that describes recurring discomfort, sensitivity or pain
that is caused by an incomplete fracture or crack in a tooth. Cracked tooth syndrome is most
common in lower back teeth (molars) as these teeth absorb most of the chewing forces.
Common causes of a cracked tooth include :
- Teeth grinding
- Large dental fillings
- Chewing or biting hard foods, such as ice, nuts, or hard candy
- Trauma such as a car accident, sporting injury, fall or even a fistfight
- Abrupt changes in temperature in the mouth — for instance, from eat something
extremely hot and then trying to cool your mouth with ice water
- Age, with most teeth cracks occurring in people over 50
The management of a cracked tooth depends on the severity and extent of the crack.
Cracked teeth can range from minor asymptomatic hairline cracks to more significant
fractures that can lead to pain, sensitivity, and potential complications. Figure 3 shows the
types of cracked teeth.
Figure 3. Illustration of the various types of cracked teeth.
Source : https://microendocenter.com/cracked-teeth/
Here are some general approaches to the management of a cracked tooth:
1. Clinical Evaluation:
Involve the use of special instruments, magnification, and dental X-rays to assess the
location and extent of the crack.
2. Pain Management:
If the cracked tooth is causing pain, pain relievers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen can be
used to manage discomfort. Avoid chewing on the affected side to prevent further damage.
3. Dental Bonding or Filling:
Minor cracks or craze lines that do not extend into the pulp chamber may be treated with
dental bonding or a tooth-coloured filling to restore the tooth's structure and prevent
further cracking.
4. Dental Crown:
For more significant cracks that compromise the structural integrity of the tooth, a dental
crown may be recommended to cover and protect the tooth, thereby preventing the crack
from spreading and providing strength to the tooth.
5. Root Canal Treatment:
If the crack extends into the pulp, root canal treatment may be necessary to remove the
damaged pulp and relieve pain.
6. Extraction:
In cases where the crack is extensive and the tooth cannot be effectively restored,
extraction may be considered. However, preserving natural teeth is usually preferred, and
extraction is considered the last resort when all other options are not feasible.
7. Preventive Measures:
Patients with cracked teeth should avoid habits that may contribute to further damage, such
as chewing on hard objects, clenching or grinding teeth. For patients that are known to have
teeth grinding habits, night guards can be fabricated.
8. Monitoring:
Some cracks may be asymptomatic or cause minimal discomfort. In such cases, the dentist
may recommend monitoring the tooth for any changes over time, with periodic check-ups
and X-rays.
Reference :
1. Ismail WS bt. W. Cracked tooth syndrome [Internet]. 2020 [cited 2023 Dec 18]. Available from:
http://www.myhealth.gov.my/en/cracked-tooth-syndrome/
2. Cracked teeth [Internet]. 2022 [cited 2023 Dec 18]. Available from:
https://www.aae.org/patients/dental-symptoms/cracked-teeth/