What Do You Do If Your Tooth Is Cracked Under a Crown?

A crown is placed over a tooth to protect it from damage and decay. When all goes well, the tooth can last for many years with a crown restoration. However, in some cases a tooth can crack underneath the crown, requiring further treatment.

How is a cracked tooth under a crown treated? Can the tooth be saved? Learn the answers to these questions and more below. 

How Do You Know Your Tooth is Cracked Under Your Crown? 

A crack in a tooth that is underneath a crown can be difficult to detect. Signs and symptoms may include: 

• Persistent toothache. If you experience pain in a tooth that has a crown and it does not subside, you may have a cracked tooth. 
• Pain that comes and goes. A crack can sometimes cause intermittent pain, making you unsure if there is a problem. 
• Sensitivity. The tooth may suddenly seem more sensitive than your other teeth if there is a crack under the crown. 
• Loose crown. If your crown is loose it may be due to a crack in the tooth under it. 

Diagnosing a Cracked Tooth Under a Crown

If you or your dentist suspect that your tooth may be cracked under your crown, digital X-rays may be taken to evaluate the tooth. Most cracks will show up on digital radiography images, allowing your dentist to verify the existence, location, and severity of the crack. 

Treating a Cracked Tooth Under a Crown

Once your dentist has determined that the tooth is cracked, the existing crown will be removed to further assess the condition of the tooth. The tooth may need a root canal to restore the health or prevent infection. In most cases a new crown can be placed over the tooth. 

If the crack is too large or extends below the gumline, the tooth may not be salvageable and may need to be extracted. This may also be necessary if the tooth has extensive damage and may not support a new crown. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Cracked Teeth Under Crowns

Can the same crown be placed back on my tooth after treatment? 

In most cases a new crown will be needed because the tooth material under it will be altered during treatment. The tooth may be smaller or larger depending on the type of treatment that was required to restore the tooth. 

How can I prevent cracks from developing under a crown? 

Cracks can’t always be prevented, but you can reduce the chances by being careful about what you eat, wearing a nightguard if you grind your teeth, and wearing a mouthguard if you play contact sports. 

Don’t Wait to Contact an Endodontist 

If you’re experiencing any of the signs of a cracked tooth, contact an endodontist right away. An endodontist specializes in treating teeth that are severely damaged or at-risk. Endodontists can often save teeth with advanced technology and techniques that go beyond general dentistry. 

Elite Endodontics of NH provides diagnosis and treatment for cracked teeth under crowns. Contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.