Expert Restorative Care at Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group
A cracked tooth can cause pain, sensitivity, and difficulty chewing, affecting both your oral health and quality of life. At Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group in Austin, TX, we specialize in advanced cracked tooth repair to restore your tooth’s function, strength, and appearance. Whether your tooth has minor fractures or severe damage, our expert team provides customized treatment solutions to prevent further complications and preserve your natural smile.
What Causes a Cracked Tooth?
Cracked teeth can occur for a variety of reasons, including:
- 🦷 Biting down on hard foods (ice, nuts, hard candy)
- 🦷 Teeth grinding (bruxism), which puts excessive pressure on the enamel
- 🦷 Trauma or injury from accidents or sports-related impacts
- 🦷 Old fillings or restorations weakening the tooth structure
- 🦷 Temperature changes causing expansion and contraction of the enamel
- 🦷 Natural aging, as teeth become more brittle over time
A cracked tooth won’t heal on its own—seeking professional care as soon as possible can help prevent further damage or infection.
Signs & Symptoms of a Cracked Tooth
Cracked teeth don’t always cause immediate pain, but you may experience:
- 🚨 Sharp pain when chewing or biting
- 🚨 Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
- 🚨 Discomfort that comes and goes
- 🚨 A visible crack or fracture in the tooth
- 🚨 Swelling or irritation around the affected tooth
If you have any of these symptoms, schedule a consultation before the crack worsens.
Types of Cracked Teeth & How We Repair Them
- Craze Lines (Superficial Cracks)
Small, hairline cracks in the outer enamel. Treatment usually cosmetic. - Fractured Cusp (Crack in the Tooth’s Crown)
Cracks that affect the chewing surface but don’t extend to the root. Treated with dental crowns. - Cracked Tooth (Extending Below the Gumline)
Deeper cracks that may affect the root. Treated with dental crowns, root canal therapy, or tooth extraction. - Split Tooth
A severe crack that separates the tooth into two sections. Treated with partial extraction, dental bridge or implant, and root canal therapy if applicable. - Vertical Root Fracture
Cracks starting from the root, often leading to infection or bone loss. Treated with root canal therapy or tooth extraction and replacement.
Cracked Tooth Repair Treatments at Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group
- Dental Bonding – Quick & effective for minor cracks.
- Dental Crowns – Strength & protection for moderate to severe cracks.
- Root Canal Therapy – Saves the tooth from extraction when the crack reaches the pulp.
- Tooth Extraction & Replacement – When damage is too severe, we offer implants, bridges, or partial dentures.
What Happens If a Cracked Tooth Is Left Untreated?
- 🚨 Worsening pain & sensitivity
- 🚨 Increased risk of infection & abscess
- 🚨 Tooth fractures becoming non-repairable
- 🚨 Jawbone loss from missing teeth (if extraction is required)
Seeking early treatment ensures a better outcome, less discomfort, and lower treatment costs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How Do I Know If I Need a Crown or a Filling for a Cracked Tooth?
Small cracks? Dental bonding or filling may be enough. Larger cracks? A dental crown is usually needed for long-term protection.
Will My Tooth Hurt After a Cracked Tooth Repair?
Mild sensitivity is normal, but most discomfort subsides within a few days. Pain relief options and aftercare instructions will be provided.
How Long Does It Take to Repair a Cracked Tooth?
Bonding: One visit (30-60 minutes), Crown: Two visits (with a temporary crown in between), Root canal: One to two visits.
How Can I Prevent a Cracked Tooth?
- Avoid chewing hard foods (ice, nuts, hard candy)
- Wear a night guard if you grind your teeth
- Wear a sports mouthguard for contact sports
- Maintain regular dental checkups
Can a Cracked Tooth Heal on Its Own?
No. Unlike bones, teeth cannot heal themselves. Without treatment, cracks worsen over time, leading to tooth loss or infection.
Why Choose Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group for Cracked Tooth Repair?
- Prosthodontic Experts – Specializing in advanced restorative treatments.
- State-of-the-Art Technology – Digital X-rays & 3D imaging for precise diagnosis.
- Minimally Invasive Options – We aim to preserve your natural tooth whenever possible.
- Customized Solutions – Each treatment plan is tailored to your specific needs.
- Compassionate, Comfortable Care – Sedation options available for anxious patients.
Contact Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group in Austin, TX, to schedule your cracked tooth repair consultation today!
📍 Location: 1500 W 38th St Ste 34, Austin, TX 78731 📞 Phone: (512) 451-7491 🖱️
Restore your smile with expert cracked tooth repair—Call us today!