Cracked Teeth

Cracked teeth demonstrate many types of symptoms, including pain when chewing, temperature sensitivities, or even the release of biting pressure. It is also common for tooth pain to come and go, making it difficult to diagnose the cause of discomfort.

Chewing can cause movement of the cracked pieces of your tooth, and the pulp within the tooth becomes irritated. At the same time, when biting pressure is released, the crack can close quickly, resulting in sharp pain. Eventually, the pulp will become damaged and tooth will consistently hurt, even when you are not chewing. It is possible that cracks can lead to infection of the pulp tissue, which can spread to the bone and gum surrounding the problematic tooth.

Types of Cracks

A depiction of craze lines on teeth

Craze lines

These are tiny cracks that only affect the outer enamel of the tooth. These cracks are more common in adults. These types of cracks are superficial and are usually of no concern.

An example of a tooth with a fractured cusp

Fractured Cusp

When a cusp becomes weakened, a fracture may result. The cusp may break off or be removed by a dentist. A fractured cusp rarely damages the pulp, so root canal is not necessary. Your dentist will usually restore the tooth with a full crown.

A sample of a tooth showing a treatable cracked tooth

Treatable Cracked Tooth

This type of crack extends from the chewing surface of the tooth and vertically migrates towards the root. In some cases, the crack may extend below the gum line. It is possible for the crack to extend further into the root. Damage to the pulp is commonplace. In this case, root canal treatment is usually necessary. A cracked tooth that is not treated will worsen, resulting in the loss of the tooth. Therefore, early detection is essential.

A depiction of a tooth split with distinct segments

Split Tooth

A split tooth is usually the result of an untreated cracked tooth. It can be identified by a crack with distinct segments. This type of tooth can never be saved intact. Yet, the position and extent of the problem will dictate whether any portion of the tooth can be saved. Sometimes, endodontic retreatment by the doctors and restoration by your dentist can be used to save a portion of the tooth.

An example of a vertical fracture starting at the tooth's root

Vertical Root Fracture

A vertical root fracture begins at the root and extends towards the chewing surface of the tooth. Unfortunately, they show minimal symptoms and may go unnoticed. Treatment involves endodontic surgery if a portion of the tooth can be saved by removal of the fractured root. Otherwise, the tooth will have to be extracted.

Valley Endodontics Root Canal & Implant Dentistry

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As good as it gets, root canal wise. Very relaxed, soothing atmosphere. Everything explained and the team was very patient.

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Appreciated getting relief from my trouble swallowing during procedure.

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A very professional operation from front desk and assisting staff to Dr. Wilson. No delay checking in or being called. The entire staff was friendly, efficient and skilled. A pleasure to be a patient. 🤓

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You're phone people at times were hard to communicate with and not very compassionate.

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Everyone was very professional and kind. Ruby, Andrea and Dr. Park were all very nice. Stacey was also very nice to deal with on the telephone. I had a very good experience. Thank you.

- Debra A

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The front desk staff were great. Best dental office view in town as well!

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This is a beautiful office with a friendly, considerate, professional and efficient staff that I will recommend to family and friends.

- Pamela F

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Everyone was fantastic!!!

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Very pleasant and professional staff. Dr. Park certainly know how to do a painless procedure...

- Charles A

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Great location. Great staff. Brian couldn’t be better.

- Sandra G

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Dr. Wilson has treated many of my teeth and I highly recommend this office for the professionalism, knowledge and gentleness.

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Dr parks does the best novacaine I have ever had. The perfect touch.

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I was treated with respect and kindness

- Debra S

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Dr Wilson and his staff are awesome! They made sure I was comfortable throughout my procedure and answered all of my questions. I felt taken care of.

- Darcy M

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Despite the difficulty of getting the initial appointment, I was very pleased with the care I received. I work in the medical field and understand working the front desk can be a tough job. With that said, I wish that my first phone call to your office wasn't so frustrating.

- Melissa C

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I’d have to work at it to find something which I thought needed improvement.

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I was very satisfied with my procedure. All went very well. Thank you so much for saving my tooth.

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For a root canal procedure it couldn't have been better. Pain free, and staff was awesome.

- Tom A

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I have had years of dental issues, which has lead to quite a bit of anxiety around dental procedures. Dr. Wilson and his assistants are AMAZING - so gentle, attentive, and caring. I can honestly say that my last visit was completely anxiety and pain-free, which is the first time I have been able to say that in years! Amazing!!

- Erin J

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At Valley Endodontics they have considered all that is need to help you through you procedure and keep you comfortable. From the refrigerator stocked with all kinds of seltzer water, to blankets for maximum coziness, to the iPod with headphones and Pandora to choose your favorite tunes. Dr. Wilson is kind and welcoming. All staff explains the procedures before they are started to prepare you and is very responsive to your feedback during the procedure. They make adjustments to ensure maximum comfort is achieved. i highly recommend this practice for all of you advanced dental care needs.

- Carrie M

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