Cracked Teeth

cracked teeth dentist in Colfax WA

Expert Care for Cracked Teeth

Cracked Teeth: Diagnosis and Treatment at Colfax Dental

A cracked tooth can cause anything from mild sensitivity to sharp, lingering pain, temperature or biting sensitivty and in many cases, it’s not always obvious what’s causing the discomfort. At Colfax Dental, we specialize in diagnosing and treating cracked teeth before they lead to more serious dental issues. Whether the crack is minor or severe, Dr. John Turner, a trusted dentist in Colfax WA, is here to help you restore your tooth and protect your long-term oral health.

Understanding Cracked Teeth

Cracked teeth can occur for a variety of reasons: biting down on hard foods, grinding your teeth at night (bruxism), trauma to the mouth, or even age-related wear and tear. While some cracks are immediately painful, others may go unnoticed until they worsen. Common signs include sensitivity to hot or cold, pain when chewing, or a tooth that feels sharp or rough.

Prompt diagnosis is key to preventing a crack from spreading or leading to infection. As a leading dentist in Colfax WA, Dr. Turner uses advanced diagnostic tools, including CBCT 3D imaging, to detect cracks that might not be visible to the naked eye or even on traditional X-rays.

Types of Cracked Teeth and Their Treatment Options

Not all cracked teeth are the same. Understanding the different types can help you recognize symptoms early and seek appropriate treatment. Here are the most common types of cracked teeth we treat at Colfax Dental:

  1. Craze Lines: Craze lines are tiny cracks in the outer enamel of the tooth. They are shallow, painless, and often considered cosmetic rather than a functional concern. Many adults have craze lines, especially on front teeth. While they typically don’t require treatment, Dr. Turner may recommend cosmetic options like enamel polishing or bonding if they are visible or bothersome.
  2. Fractured Cusps: When a piece of the chewing surface of a tooth breaks off, it’s called a fractured cusp. This usually occurs around dental fillings and may not cause significant pain. However, it can leave the tooth vulnerable to further damage. Treatment often involves placing a dental crown to restore strength and prevent future complications.
  3. Cracked Tooth (Extending Vertically): This type of crack extends from the chewing surface downward toward the root but hasn’t yet split the tooth completely. These cracks can cause pain when biting and may worsen without intervention. The treatment depends on the severity and depth of the crack. In many cases, Dr. Turner may recommend a crown to hold the tooth together. If the crack extends into the pulp (nerve), a root canal may be necessary before placing the crown. If a crack extends down the root, the tooth may not be savable and removal is necessary.
  4. Split Tooth: A split tooth occurs when a cracked tooth has progressed to the point of dividing the tooth into distinct segments. This type of damage is often painful and may not be salvageable in full. Depending on the location and extent of the split, Dr. Turner may be able to preserve part of the tooth using advanced restorative techniques or may recommend extraction followed by a dental implant or bridge.
  5. Vertical Root Fracture: These cracks begin in the root of the tooth and extend upward toward the crown. They are often hard to detect because they produce minimal symptoms until the surrounding bone and gum tissue become inflamed or infected. Vertical root fractures usually require extraction and tooth replacement, though some cases may be treated with endodontic surgery.

Treatment at Colfax Dental: Comfort and Precision

Every case of cracked teeth is unique, which is why we take a personalized approach to diagnosis and treatment. Our team will carefully examine your tooth using digital imaging and CBCT 3D scans to identify the exact location and extent of the crack. From there, we’ll create a custom treatment plan that may include:

  • Dental bonding for small surface cracks
  • Crowns, including CEREC same-day crowns, for moderate cracks
  • Root canal therapy if the pulp is affected
  • Extractions and dental implants for teeth that cannot be saved

With our advanced CEREC technology, we can fabricate and place a custom crown in just one visit, making your treatment faster, more convenient, and more comfortable.

Why Choose Colfax Dental for Cracked Teeth?

Cracked teeth can be unpredictable, but with expert care and timely treatment, most can be preserved and protected for years to come. At Colfax Dental, Dr. John Turner is the dentist in Colfax WA patients trust for comprehensive, compassionate care. We combine modern technology with patient-focused service to ensure your experience is efficient, comfortable, and successful.

We’re also here for long-term care. After treating your cracked tooth, we’ll help you prevent future issues with regular cleanings, bite assessments, and if needed, custom nightguards to protect against grinding.

Protect Your Smile; Don’t Ignore a Cracked Tooth

If you suspect you may have a cracked tooth — or if you’re dealing with unexplained tooth pain or sensitivity — don’t wait. The earlier a cracked tooth is diagnosed, the more treatment options are available to save it.

Contact Colfax Dental today to schedule an evaluation. Let Dr. John Turner, the dentist Colfax WA patients rely on, help you restore comfort, function, and confidence to your smile. Cracked teeth don’t have to become a long-term problem — and with the right care, they won’t.