Cracked Teeth & Crowns

Cracked Teeth & Crowns​

Don’t ignore pain when chewing or biting

Do you experience discomfort when chewing or biting, or sensitivity to hot or cold food and drinks? These symptoms can sometimes be associated with a cracked tooth. Cracks in teeth are not always visible and may worsen over time if left unassessed. A cracked tooth will not repair itself, and early evaluation can help determine the extent of the crack and what management options may be suitable to relieve discomfort. If you notice ongoing pain or sensitivity, it’s advisable to have the tooth assessed sooner rather than later. Early assessment may help reduce the risk of further damage and support better long-term outcomes.

Cracked Teeth

Dentists internationally are seeing cracked teeth more frequently, which may be associated with factors such as stress, clenching or grinding (bruxism), and changes in bite forces.

Management of cracked teeth is a common part of dental care, although treatment options depend on the location and extent of the crack. In some cases, bonding may be recommended. This involves the placement of a tooth-coloured resin to help restore chipped or cracked areas and support the tooth structure.

Bonding is generally considered when cracks are limited to areas above the gumline. If a crack extends deeper toward the root of the tooth, different treatment options — such as a crown or, in some cases, extraction — may need to be discussed following clinical assessment.

Your dentist will assess the tooth carefully and explain which management approach may be appropriate for your individual situation.

Crowns

In some cases, significant loss of tooth structure may require a more extensive restorative option, such as a crown. At expatdental®, crowns are provided using restorative materials such as porcelain or zirconia, selected following clinical assessment. These materials can be shade-matched to surrounding teeth to support a natural appearance.

A crown, also known as a “cap”, is a restoration that covers a tooth. It may be used to help protect and support a tooth that has been weakened or damaged, and in some cases to improve its appearance.

Crowns may be considered in a variety of situations, including where a tooth has been affected by decay, fracture, or trauma; where a tooth developed with an unusual shape or structure; or where the position or shape of a tooth presents functional or aesthetic concerns and orthodontic treatment is not indicated.

Crowns are designed to function as a longer-term restoration. Your dentist will assess your individual situation and discuss whether a crown is suitable, along with expected outcomes and care requirements.

FAQs

There is no single crown type that suits everyone. After examining your teeth and considering factors such as function, location, and appearance, your dentist will discuss the available options and advise which crown may be most suitable for your individual situation. 

The timeframe for crown treatment can vary depending on the tooth involved, the type of crown planned, and individual clinical needs. In many cases, treatment is completed over more than one visit. Your dentist will explain the expected timeline for your specific situation during your consultation.

A crown is placed over an existing tooth and relies on the remaining tooth structure and root for support. A dental implant, on the other hand, is used to replace a missing tooth and involves a titanium fixture placed in the jawbone to support a replacement tooth.

Your dentist will assess your oral health and discuss which option may be appropriate for your individual circumstances.

In some situations, a crown may be recommended instead of a filling when a tooth has lost a significant amount of structure. A crown covers and supports the remaining tooth, which can help distribute biting forces more evenly across the tooth during function.

Fillings are typically used to restore smaller areas of damage. When damage is more extensive, the remaining tooth structure may be less able to support a filling over time, particularly in areas exposed to higher biting forces.

Crowns may be considered in cases involving extensive decay, fracture, crack lines, trauma to the tooth, or following root canal treatment. Your dentist will assess the condition of your tooth and discuss whether a filling or a crown may be the most appropriate option for your individual situation.

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