Can a Cracked Tooth be Saved with a Root Canal and Crown Red Bluff, CA
A cracked tooth is a serious problem that requires immediate attention. If not properly treated, it may have adverse effects on one's health. Fortunately, root canals and crowns may help treat severe cases of cracked teeth.
Root canals and crowns are available at Randal S. Elloway DDS, Inc in Red Bluff and the surrounding area. We may be able to help save your cracked tooth. Call us today at (530) 527-6777 to schedule an appointment and learn more.
Symptoms of a Cracked Tooth
A cracked tooth can come in many forms — ranging from cracks on just the outer surface of the tooth enamel to fractures that extend into the root. These cracks are often too small to be noticed with the naked eye, and even X-rays may not be sufficient. Our dentist may use other methods such as dental dye or a magnifying lens to diagnose a cracked tooth.
The symptoms can vary depending on the type of crack and its severity. However, several warning signs reveal a cracked tooth, including:
- A small bump on the gum line, indicating an infection
- Inconsistent pain
- Increased sensitivity to hot and cold foods and liquids
- Tooth pain when biting or chewing
- Unusual discomfort around the teeth and gums
These symptoms can also indicate another oral health issue. Our dentist will do a thorough exam to rule out any other conditions. Once diagnosed, we will discuss treatment options, including crown and root canal procedures, as necessary.
“A cracked tooth can come in many forms — ranging from cracks on just the outer surface of the tooth enamel to fractures that extend into the root.”
The Severity of Cracked Tooth Syndrome
Cracked tooth syndrome (CTS) is when a patient has a tooth with a crack that is challenging to identify. It shows up most often on molars. The symptoms of CTS include pain and discomfort when biting into food or increased sensitivity to hot and cold. This pain comes and goes.
Many oral health conditions can lead to CTS. Common causes include grinding or clenching teeth, teeth with large fillings, or teeth that have had a root canal. Many people experience symptoms for months since CTS is so tough to diagnose. People who have experienced cracked teeth in the past are more susceptible to CTS in the future.
“Cracked tooth syndrome (CTS) is when a patient has a tooth with a crack that is challenging to identify.”
When a Cracked Tooth Can Be Saved
When treating a cracked tooth, the dentist has many factors to consider. The location of the crack and the type of crack will determine the right treatment option. It is possible to treat a biting surface fracture with a crown, fitting it over the remains of the tooth and making it stronger.
A crack that goes below the gum line may need more extensive treatment like a root canal. A root canal is when the dentist removes the infected or inflamed part of the pulp, cleans the rest of the space, then fills and seals it with a special material. A crown is then fitted on the tooth to provide extra protection.
Thanks to advancements in dental techniques, a root canal is a procedure relatively free of discomfort. As long as the patient follows proper oral health care, most teeth with a root canal can last for decades. Our staff will walk the patient through all the treatment options to help them feel comfortable with the procedure.
Sometimes a cracked tooth can be saved using methods other than a root canal or crown. For example, it may be possible to fill or bond the tooth if the crack removed a small piece of tooth enamel. A veneer would offer another option if only the front part of the tooth got cracked. Patients should be sure to talk about all of their treatment options with our dentist during their assessment appointment.
“Thanks to advancements in dental techniques, a root canal is a procedure relatively free from discomfort.”
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When a Cracked Tooth Is Beyond Repair
Cracked teeth that are not treated in time may eventually cause pulp necrosis, a condition in which the tissue inside the teeth dies. This may set off a domino effect of disastrous effects on one's oral and overall health, including total teeth loss. Teeth may be totally beyond repair if the crack extends below the gum line. At that point, tooth extraction will become the only viable option.
Though today's tooth replacement options are better than ever, it is still best to save a natural tooth whenever possible. Accordingly, patients should seek endodontic help as soon as they suspect they may have a cracked tooth. Early detection is critical for proper and effective treatment, and endodontic surgery may be adequate for more severe cases. Randal S. Elloway DDS, Inc can help determine what is best for each patient on a case-by-case basis.
“Early detection is critical for proper and effective treatment, and endodontic surgery may be adequate for more severe cases.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. What if a crown or root canal cannot save my cracked tooth?
Q. How can I make sure my repaired cracked tooth stays saved?
Q. What are the symptoms of a cracked tooth?
Q. What is cracked tooth syndrome?
Q. How can you save a tooth with a root canal?
People Also Ask
Q. Is increased sensitivity to temperature a sign that endodontic surgery is necessary?
Q. What is the difference between endodontists and dentists?
Q. What is it like to go through the process of receiving a dental crown?
Q. Are pain and tenderness when touching the teeth or chewing a sign of a problem?
Aftercare for a Repaired Cracked Tooth
Unlike in broken bones, the fractures in a cracked tooth will not heal. Some cracks may even continue to grow until they separate, leading to total tooth loss. Crowns protect the treated teeth, but even they are not foolproof. Fortunately, endodontic retreatment is possible if any treated teeth heal improperly or become reinfected due to external factors.
Knowing how to care for a repaired cracked tooth is arguably just as important as having it treated in the first place. With improper aftercare, patients may inadvertently worsen the pain and have the crack spread. Some pain or discomfort may follow most cracked tooth treatment options; however, this should be easily managed with painkillers (either prescribed or over-the-counter). Randal S. Elloway DDS, Inc also provides patients with post-treatment instructions to ensure the best results.
“Knowing how to care for a repaired cracked tooth is arguably just as important as having it treated in the first place.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How do I know if I have a cracked tooth?
A. A cracked tooth mimics the symptoms of many other dental issues. However, you may experience discomfort when you bite down or be sensitive to hot and cold foods. Do not ignore these symptoms. The sooner a cracked tooth is diagnosed and treated, the better.
Q. What can I do to keep my teeth from cracking?
A. It is difficult to avoid cracked teeth; still, you can do some things to reduce your chances. Do not chew on hard objects like ice or pens, look into a mouthguard if you clench or grind your teeth, and wear a mouthguard while playing contact sports.
Q. Could I have cracked tooth syndrome (CTS)?
A. Cracked tooth syndrome is when the crack on the tooth is not detected on an X-ray or resides under the gums. Since the crack is hard to see, many people may suffer for months before seeking help. Our dentist will utilize many different methods to help diagnose CTS.
Q. Why does a cracked tooth hurt?
A. Inside the tooth is a soft connective tissue called the pulp. This pulp contains cells, blood vessels, and nerves. Pulp may become irritated when the outer hard tissues of the tooth are cracked and chewing causes movement of the broken pieces.
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Dental Terminology
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2026
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2026
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2026
About our business, license, and website security
- Randal S. Elloway DDS, Inc was established in 1992.
- We accept the following payment methods: American Express, Cash, Check, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa
- We serve patients from the following counties: Tehama County
- We serve patients from the following cities: Red Bluff, Anderson, Redding, Shasta Lake, Chico, Magalia, Cottonwood, Corning, and Orland
- CA (License #DDS40581). View License Information and Specifics
- National Provider Identifier Database (1942345251). View NPI Registry Information
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