How to Fix a Cracked Tooth - Dental Health Society

You’re enjoying a crunchy snack—maybe a handful of almonds or a piece of hard candy—when suddenly, something feels off. A sharp pain shoots through your mouth, or perhaps you hear an unsettling crack. You run your tongue over your teeth, and there it is: a chip, a rough edge, or even a missing piece—evidence of a cracked tooth.

Cracked teeth are a common dental issue and one of the top reasons people visit the dentist. While it’s alarming to feel part of your tooth break, the good news is that an experienced dentist will know how to fix it.

Assessing Cracked Tooth Damage

Not all cracked teeth are the same. Some are minor and painless, while others can be severe and require immediate dental attention. One thing is certain: teeth do not heal on their own. Trying to fix a cracked tooth naturally or ignoring the problem will only make it worse. The first step in dealing with a cracked tooth is to visit a dentist to assess the damage. The dentist will ask questions about your injury and then examine your teeth and gums, potentially using lights, dyes, or X-rays to better observe the crack. The dentist will use this information to determine the severity of the tooth crack, which in turn determines the required treatment.

Here are the most common types of tooth cracks:

Hairline cracks – Tiny surface cracks in the enamel that may not require treatment.
Chipped teeth – A small piece of the tooth has broken off, but the structure is intact. Usually, this can be repaired easily.
Cracked teeth – A visible fracture that may extend deeper into the tooth. If the crack reaches the inner pulp, it can cause pain and sensitivity.
Split tooth – A crack so deep that the tooth separates into distinct sections. This often requires extraction.
Vertical root fractures – A crack that begins at the root and moves upward. These are often painful and can lead to infection.

If you’re experiencing pain, heightened sensitivity, or swelling, the crack is likely serious and requires prompt dental care. Even if there’s no pain, it’s best to see a dentist soon, as leaving a cracked tooth untreated can lead to more severe damage or infection.

What to do Until You See a Dentist

Once you’ve identified a cracked tooth, the next step is to protect it and manage any pain until you see a dentist. Even minor cracks can worsen if left untreated, so taking the right precautions is key.

Managing Pain and Sensitivity

Take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to reduce discomfort.
Avoid chewing on the affected side to prevent further damage.
Steer clear of hot, cold, or sugary foods, which can trigger sensitivity.
If the crack has exposed a sharp edge, you can apply dental wax (available at most pharmacies) to protect your tongue and cheeks.

Keeping the Area Clean

Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to help prevent infection.
If a piece of the tooth has broken off, store it in milk or saliva and bring it to the dentist—it may be re-attachable.
Do not use glue, household adhesives, or DIY solutions to fix the tooth, as these can cause harm.

Even if the pain subsides, a cracked tooth won’t heal on its own. The sooner you visit a dentist, the better your chances of saving the tooth.

Does a Cracked Tooth Need to be Pulled?

The short answer: Not in most cases! Dentists repair cracked teeth all the time using modern dental techniques. The proper treatment depends on the severity and location of the crack, but most cracks can be fixed without needing to extract the tooth.

Factors That Affect Treatment:

Depth of the crack – Superficial cracks in the enamel are easy to repair, while deeper ones may require more involved procedures.
Location of the crack – Cracks in the visible part of the tooth are often treated differently than those affecting the root.
Pain and infection risk – If the crack has reached the inner pulp or root, more advanced treatment (such as a root canal) may be necessary.

So, does a cracked tooth need to be pulled? Not necessarily. Extraction is typically a last resort, only used when the crack extends deep enough that the tooth can’t be saved.

How Dentists Fix a Cracked Tooth

Depending on the severity of the crack, dentists will recommend one of several treatment options. The goal is to restore strength, function, and appearance while preventing further damage.

1. Dental Bonding (For Minor Cracks and Chips)

A tooth-colored resin is applied to fill in the crack or chipped area.
Ideal for small cracks and cosmetic fixes.
Quick and painless—often completed in one visit.

2. Dental Crowns (For Moderate Cracks)

A custom-fitted cap is placed over the tooth to protect it.
Used when the crack is significant but the tooth structure is still strong.
Prevents further breakage and restores full function.

3. Root Canal (For Deep Cracks Reaching the Pulp)

If the crack extends into the inner pulp, a root canal may be needed.
The damaged pulp is removed, and the tooth is sealed to prevent infection.
Often followed by placing a crown to strengthen the tooth.

4. Tooth Extraction & Replacement (For Severe Cracks)

Only necessary if damage is beyond repair by other techniques.
If extraction is necessary, options include:
- Dental implants are permanent, natural-looking replacements bound to the jawbone.
- Bridges are an alternative that connect to adjacent teeth for support rather than the jaw.

Most cracked teeth can be saved with professional treatment, preventing more costly or invasive procedures.

See a Dentist ASAP for a Cracked Tooth

A cracked tooth can feel alarming, but it’s a common dental issue with many effective treatment options. Whether your crack is minor or severe, the key is to act quickly—delaying treatment can lead to infection, worsening damage, or even tooth loss.

Here’s the thing about teeth: once they’re damaged, they can’t fix themselves. If you’ve got a crack, trying home remedies or pretending the crack isn’t there will make things worse down the line. Instead, follow these steps:

Manage pain and keep the area clean until you get professional care.
Avoid home remedies that could damage your tooth further.
Schedule a dental appointment as soon as possible to get the right treatment.

The sooner you seek help, the better your chances of keeping your natural tooth intact. If you suspect a cracked tooth, don’t wait—protect your smile and get the expert care you need. To find a dentist near you who can help, click here.