Cracked Tooth Treatment in Leesburg, FL
A cracked tooth can cause sharp, unpredictable pain and may worsen if left untreated. At Leading Edge Dental in Leesburg, FL , we diagnose cracks precisely and use bonding, crowns, and root canal therapy to save your natural tooth whenever possible. Call (352) 365-6442 if you suspect a cracked tooth.
Understanding Cracked Teeth
Cracked teeth are one of the most common reasons adults lose teeth. Daily chewing forces, grinding, and large fillings all place stress on teeth over time. A crack may begin as a tiny line in the enamel and gradually extend toward the root, allowing bacteria to reach the pulp and cause infection.
Cracks can be difficult to see, even on X-rays. We use magnification, intraoral cameras, and 3D CBCT imaging to locate the crack and determine how deep it goes.
Types of Tooth Cracks
- Craze lines: Tiny surface cracks in enamel that are usually cosmetic.
- Fractured cusp: A piece of the chewing surface breaks, often around a filling.
- Cracked tooth: A crack extends from the chewing surface toward the root.
- Split tooth: A crack that has separated the tooth into distinct segments.
- Vertical root fracture: A crack that starts in the root and may require extraction.
How We Treat a Cracked Tooth
Treatment depends on the size and location of the crack. Minor chips and craze lines can be smoothed or repaired with tooth-colored bonding from our cosmetic dentistry services. A dental crown holds the tooth together and protects it from further damage. If the crack has reached the nerve, root canal therapy removes the infected pulp before the crown is placed.
When a tooth cannot be saved, we provide gentle extraction and help you replace it with a dental implant so you can chew comfortably again. Learn more about replacing missing teeth.
Do Not Wait to Get Help
A cracked tooth can quickly become a tooth abscess if bacteria reach the pulp. Prompt care is usually simpler and less costly. Patients from Mount Dora, Tavares, and nearby communities visit our Leesburg office for fast, gentle care. View all conditions we treat.
Cracked Tooth FAQs
What are the symptoms of a cracked tooth?
Sharp pain when biting or releasing a bite, sensitivity to hot or cold, and pain that comes and goes are common signs. Some cracks cause no symptoms at first.
Can a cracked tooth heal on its own?
No. Unlike bone, teeth cannot heal cracks. Treatment is needed to protect the tooth and keep the crack from spreading.
How is a cracked tooth repaired?
Minor cracks may be repaired with bonding. Most cracked teeth need a dental crown, and cracks that reach the pulp may also require a root canal.
What causes teeth to crack?
Chewing hard foods or ice, teeth grinding, large old fillings, injury, and sudden temperature changes can all cause cracks.
Is a cracked tooth an emergency?
A crack with severe pain, swelling, or a broken piece should be seen promptly. Visit our dental emergencies page and call (352) 365-6442.
What if my cracked tooth cannot be saved?
If a crack extends below the gumline, the tooth may need to be removed. We can replace it with a dental implant or bridge.
How can I prevent cracked teeth?
Avoid chewing ice and hard objects, wear a mouthguard for sports, and ask us about a night guard if you grind your teeth.
Save Your Cracked Tooth
The sooner a crack is treated, the better your chances of keeping your natural tooth. Call Leading Edge Dental at (352) 365-6442 to be seen at our Leesburg, FL office.