Cracked Teeth Repair

Teeth may crack when subjected to the stress of chewing hard food or ice, by biting on an unexpected hard object, or because of tooth grinding (bruxism). Your teeth may crack whether or not they have restorations, but teeth restored with typical silver-alloy restorations are most susceptible to cracking.

If you notice some or all of the following symptoms and signs, you may have small cracks in your teeth (sometimes called “cracked tooth syndrome”):

  • Pain while chewing
  • Pain when teeth are exposed to cold air
  • Unsolicited or unexpected pain in one or more teeth (usually caused by leakage of sugar into a tooth crack)

Better Image Dentistry offers a range of treatments to repair cracked teeth for patients at our office in Bridgewater (Somerset County), NJ. Please contact us for more information.


What Is Cracked Teeth Repair?

Cracked teeth fall into two major categories, depending on the severity and extent of the damage to the teeth:

  • Simple crack: The majority of cracked teeth (about nine out of every 10) can be treated by placement of a simple crown (cap) or inlay/onlay on the tooth.
  • Complex crack: Occasionally (in about one out of every 10 cases), a crack is pronounced or severe enough to access the pulp (nerve) of the tooth. If pain persists after placement of the temporary restoration, you may have a crack into the pulp of the affected tooth.

Dr. Fairweather will evaluate your specific dental condition to determine what treatment is most appropriate for your cracked teeth.


What are the Benefits of Cracked Teeth Repair?

  • Your tooth pain will be relieved
  • You will be able to chew, smile and speak normally
  • Your dental health will be enhanced


What Should I Expect if I Have My Cracked Teeth Repaired?

  • Simple crack: If you have a tooth with a simple crack, Dr. Fairweather will usually prepare the tooth for a crown or inlay/onlay restoration. Once a temporary restoration is placed on the tooth, the pain usually stops immediately. If this is the case with your tooth, we will place the final crown or inlay/onlay on your next appointment and the condition should be resolved.
  • Complex crack: If your pain persists after placement of the temporary restoration, you may have a crack into the pulp of the affected tooth. If this is the case, the tooth may require endodontics (root canal therapy) before the final restoration is placed. Please contact Better Image Dentistry if you experience any pain after your temporary restoration is placed.


Is Cracked Teeth Repair a Good Option for Me?

Because every patient is unique, Dr. Fairweather and his professional staff will evaluate your specific dental condition to determine the best way to treat your cracked teeth. Please contact us to schedule a consultation at our office in Bridgewater, NJ.