Cracked tooth: symptoms and treatment
Quick answer
How do I know if I have a cracked tooth?
A cracked tooth often causes a sharp pain when you bite down or release, sensitivity to cold, and pain that comes and goes rather than a constant ache.
Cracks can be invisible and may not show on an X-ray. Avoid chewing on that side and call York House Dental Practice in West Byfleet on 01932 348864 for an assessment (emergency from £78). Treating a crack early with a crown often saves the tooth.
What you need to know
Cracks are common in teeth with large fillings, in people who grind or clench, and after biting something hard such as a bone, olive stone or ice. Back teeth are most often affected.
Treatment depends on how deep the crack goes. A small crack may need a filling or onlay. A crack into the tooth needs a crown (from £795) to hold it together. If the nerve is affected, root canal treatment may be needed first. A crack that runs down into the root usually means the tooth has to be removed.
A night guard protects your other teeth if grinding is the cause. See broken tooth repair, dental crowns and teeth grinding.
Last reviewed: by Dr Kaveet Patel, Principal Dentist
