Cracked Teeth

‍Cracked teeth and tooth roots are a common cause of pain and tooth loss. Pain with biting, tooth mobility, hot and cold sensitivity, and localized swelling can all be signs that a tooth has cracked. However, sometimes a cracked root may be completely asymptomatic and only recognizable because of bone loss visible on a dental x-ray.

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The most common causes of cracked teeth and roots that we see in the dental clinic result from trauma, tooth grinding and clenching, or even normal biting forces on teeth that have been weakened by cavities. Teeth with large fillings or root canal therapy are especially at risk for cracking.    

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Treatment depends on the location and extent of the crack. Generally, if the crack does not extend below the height of the bone, the tooth can be restored. The crack can be repaired with a simple filling or, if the crack extends into the nerve of the tooth, a root canal and a crown. If the crack extends below the height of the bone, the only treatment option is extraction of the tooth.[1]

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Prevention is always the treatment of choice. For athletes, wearing a well-fitting mouth guard is an important step in protecting teeth from trauma.[2] For patients with a history of clenching and grinding, a night guard can protect your teeth from excessive forces while you sleep.  Wearing a night guard can also help protect any existing crowns and large fillings.

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Cracked teeth and roots are a common cause of pain and tooth loss but there are ways to reduce your risk. If you have a history of multiple failed dental fillings, cracked teeth or know that you clench or grind while you sleep, please consider getting a guard to protect your teeth.  
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[1]www.aae.org/patients/dental-symptoms/cracked-teethThe American Association of Endodontists accessed on 04/15/2026

[2]www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-a-z/mouthguardsThe American Dental Association accessed on 04/15/2026

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