Root Canal For A Cracked Tooth: What You Need To Know
A cracked tooth can be painful and stressful, but the good news is that it can often be saved with the right treatment. If your tooth is cracked and causing discomfort, your dentist may recommend a root canal to relieve pain and prevent further damage. But what does this mean for you?
In this blog post, we’ll break down:
✅ What causes a cracked tooth
✅ When a root canal is needed
✅ The root canal procedure step by step
✅ Costs and insurance coverage
✅ Recovery tips and what to expect
What causes a cracked tooth?
A tooth can crack for several reasons, including:
- Biting on hard foods like ice, nuts, or candy
- Grinding your teeth (often during sleep)
- Injury from an accident or sports
- Large fillings that weaken the tooth over time
- Age-related wear and tear
Some cracks cause mild discomfort, while others can lead to serious pain and infection. That’s why it’s important to get checked by a dentist if you suspect a crack.
When does a cracked tooth need a root canal?
Not all cracked teeth need a root canal. The treatment depends on how deep the crack goes:
🟢 Small cracks (craze lines) – These are tiny cracks in the outer enamel and usually don’t need treatment.
🟡 Moderate cracks – If the crack reaches the dentin (the middle layer of the tooth), you may need a dental crown to prevent it from worsening.
🔴 Deep cracks – If the crack extends into the pulp (the soft tissue inside the tooth), a root canal is needed to remove the damaged pulp and save the tooth.
🚨 If the crack reaches the root, the tooth may need to be extracted
What happens during a root canal for a cracked tooth?
A root canal sounds scary, but modern dentistry has made it a comfortable, painless procedure. Here’s what to expect:
1️⃣ Exam & X-rays – Your dentist will check how deep the crack is and take X-rays.
2️⃣ Numbing the area – Local anesthesia is used.
3️⃣ Cleaning the tooth – The damaged pulp inside the tooth is removed, and the area is disinfected to prevent infection.
4️⃣ Sealing & Filling – The empty space is filled with a material to keep bacteria out.
5️⃣ Crown Placement – Since a cracked tooth is weak, a dental crown (a cap that looks like a real tooth) is placed to restore strength and appearance.
How long does it take to recover from a root canal?
Most people feel back to normal within a few days.
✅ Mild soreness? Normal for a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers help.
✅ Eating? Stick to soft foods for 1–2 days.
✅ Swelling? Ice packs help reduce swelling.
✅ Crown placement? You may need a second visit for the permanent crown.
🚨 If you have severe pain, swelling, or fever, call your dentist ASAP.
FAQs About Root Canal for a Cracked Tooth
1️⃣ How do I know if my cracked tooth needs a root canal?
- If you have pain when chewing, sensitivity, or swelling, you may need one.