A cracked tooth is more common than many people think. It can happen while chewing something hard, after an accident, or even gradually from teeth grinding. Regardless of the cause, knowing how to fix a cracked tooth is essential for preventing pain, infection, and potential tooth loss.
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Why a Cracked Tooth Should Not Be Ignored
Even if the crack seems small or causes little pain, it is important not to delay treatment. Cracks can worsen over time, leading to more serious problems such as:
- Tooth infection: Bacteria can enter through the crack, reaching the pulp and causing infection.
- Increased sensitivity: Hot, cold, or sweet foods may trigger discomfort.
- Structural weakness: The tooth may eventually break or split completely.
- Tooth loss: In severe cases, the entire tooth may need extraction.
Prompt dental care can save the tooth and prevent more costly or invasive treatments in the future.
Types of Tooth Cracks
Dentists usually classify cracked teeth into several categories:
- Craze Lines – Tiny surface cracks in the enamel. These are usually harmless and do not require treatment, although some people seek cosmetic solutions.
- Fractured Cusp – A piece of the chewing surface breaks off, often around a filling. This usually does not affect the pulp and can be restored.
- Cracked Tooth – A crack that extends vertically but has not yet split the tooth completely. Treatment is needed to prevent further damage.
- Split Tooth – The tooth is fully separated into two parts. Extraction is often required.
- Vertical Root Fracture – A crack begins in the root and extends upwards. These are often hard to detect and may require extraction.
Identifying the type of crack is the first step towards choosing the right treatment.
How to Fix a Cracked Tooth: Proven Treatment Options
The treatment depends on the location, size, and depth of the crack. Here are the most common solutions offered by dentists in Singapore and Malaysia:
1. Dental Bonding
- Best for: Small cracks or cosmetic issues.
- Process: A tooth-coloured resin is applied to the surface, hardened with a special light, and polished.
- Advantages: Quick, painless, and affordable.
- Limitations: May not be durable for larger cracks.
2. Dental Crowns
- Best for: Teeth with larger cracks that weaken the structure.
- Process: The dentist reshapes the tooth and fits a custom-made crown (porcelain, ceramic, or metal) over it.
- Advantages: Strong, long-lasting, protects the tooth.
- Limitations: Requires at least two visits and is more expensive than bonding.
3. Root Canal Treatment (RCT)
- Best for: Cracks that reach the pulp and cause pain or infection.
- Process: The dentist removes infected pulp, cleans the canals, fills the space, and often places a crown to protect the tooth.
- Advantages: Saves the natural tooth and prevents extraction.
- Limitations: More complex and costly, requires multiple visits.
4. Veneers
- Best for: Minor cracks on front teeth affecting appearance.
- Process: Thin shells of porcelain or composite are bonded to the front of the tooth.
- Advantages: Improves aesthetics and prevents further surface chipping.
- Limitations: Cosmetic rather than structural solution.
5. Extraction and Replacement
- Best for: Severely cracked or split teeth beyond repair.
- Process: Tooth removal followed by replacement options such as dental implants, bridges, or dentures.
- Advantages: Restores function and prevents infection.
- Limitations: Most invasive and costly option.
Cost Considerations in Singapore and Malaysia
The cost of fixing a cracked tooth varies depending on the treatment. Learn more: Cracked Tooth: Treatment Costs In Singapore & Malaysia
Preventing Cracked Teeth in the Future
After treatment, maintaining good oral health habits reduces the risk of recurrence:
- Avoid biting down on hard foods or objects.
- Use a mouthguard during sports.
- Treat teeth grinding with a night guard.
- Maintain regular dental check-ups every 6 months.
- Practise good oral hygiene: brushing twice daily and flossing.
Dentists You May Consider Consider
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How do I know if my tooth is cracked?
Symptoms include pain when biting, sensitivity to temperature, swollen gums, or visible lines on the tooth. A dentist can confirm with X-rays and examination.
2. Can I fix a cracked tooth at home?
No. Home remedies may relieve pain temporarily but cannot repair cracks. Only a dentist can properly treat a cracked tooth.
3. How urgent is it to treat a cracked tooth?
It is best to see a dentist as soon as possible. Delaying treatment increases the risk of infection, severe pain, or tooth loss.
4. Will insurance cover cracked tooth treatment?
In Singapore and Malaysia, dental insurance coverage varies. Some plans cover crowns, root canals, or extractions, while others may not. Check with your insurer for details.
5. What is the success rate of fixing a cracked tooth?
Most treatments, especially crowns and root canals, are highly successful if done early. However, severely split teeth may not be salvageable and require extraction.
Disclaimer: 365Asia aims to provide accurate and up-to-date information, our contents do not constitute medical or any professional advice. If medical advice is required, please consult a licensed healthcare professional. Patient stories are for general reading. They are based on third-party information and have not been independently verified.