Cracked Tooth Treatment in Scottsdale

Common Signs and Symptoms

Recognizing a cracked tooth early can prevent complications. Common signs include:


• Sharp pain when chewing or releasing pressure

• Sensitivity to hot or cold

• Intermittent pain that comes and goes

• Swelling around the affected tooth

• A feeling that your bite doesn’t align properly


If you experience these symptoms, schedule an evaluation as soon as possible. Digital imaging and microscopic evaluation at our Scottsdale office can often detect cracks that are invisible to the naked eye.

Types of Tooth Cracks

Understanding the type of crack helps determine the most effective treatment approach. Common types include:


• Craze Lines: Tiny surface cracks that affect only the enamel and usually require no treatment.
• Fractured Cusp: A portion of the chewing surface breaks off, often around a filling.
• Cracked Tooth: A vertical crack that extends toward the root but hasn’t separated the tooth completely.
• Split Tooth: A tooth that has completely split into distinct segments, often requiring extraction.
• Vertical Root Fracture: A crack that starts in the root and may extend upward—these can be difficult to detect and may require endodontic surgery.

How Endodontic Treatment Saves Cracked Teeth

When a crack extends into the pulp (the inner tissue of the tooth), root canal therapy may be necessary to remove infection and stabilize the tooth. During this procedure, Dr. Wolcott removes the damaged pulp, disinfects the canal, and seals it to prevent further bacterial intrusion. Once healed, the tooth is typically restored with a crown by your general dentist to provide full protection and restore function.

Our use of advanced tools—like CBCT 3D imaging, dental microscopes, and modern filling materials—allows us to locate and treat cracks with exceptional precision. Early intervention significantly improves the success rate and helps avoid tooth loss.

Prevention and Long-Term Care

While not all cracks are preventable, a few simple steps can reduce your risk:

• Avoid chewing ice, hard candies, or non-food items

• Wear a night guard if you grind your teeth

• Use a mouthguard when playing contact sports

• Maintain regular dental visits for early detection


After treatment, follow your dentist’s guidance on restoration and oral hygiene. Most patients enjoy full, pain-free function for years after cracked tooth treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cracked Tooth Treatment

1. How do I know if my tooth is cracked or just sensitive?

 Sensitivity that occurs only when chewing or releasing your bite is often a sign of a crack rather than general sensitivity. Our diagnostic imaging can confirm this quickly.


2. Can a cracked tooth heal on its own?


 Unfortunately, no. Once a tooth cracks, it will not heal naturally. Prompt treatment can, however, stop the crack from spreading and save your tooth.


3. What happens if I don’t treat a cracked tooth?

 Untreated cracks can worsen over time, leading to pulp infection, abscesses, and ultimately, tooth loss.


4. Will I need a crown after treatment?

 In most cases, yes. A dental crown restores strength and prevents further damage.


5. How long does recovery take?

 Most patients experience relief within days, with full healing achieved once the crown or restoration is placed.