Cracked Teeth Treatment at APX Endodontics

A cracked tooth can be unsettling, but it doesn’t have to mean losing your tooth. At APX Endodontics, we specialize in treatments designed to save your natural tooth and eliminate discomfort.

Using advanced diagnostics and proven techniques, we can help you explore the best path forward. Call or contact us today.
Patient consultation

What Causes Cracked Teeth?

Teeth are strong, but they're not unbreakable. Even with the best care, they can crack. Everyday habits like chewing ice or hard candy can cause fractures, as can unexpectedly biting down on a hard piece of bread or popcorn kernel. If you grind or clench your teeth (bruxism), this constant pressure can lead to cracks over time. Large fillings can also weaken tooth structure, making fractures more likely.

Treatments for Cracked Teeth

The treatment for a cracked tooth depends on the type, location, and severity of the crack. At APX Endodontics, we use advanced imaging and diagnostic technology to accurately assess the damage and create a personalized treatment plan to save your tooth.

  • For minor cracks that only affect the outer enamel, which are superficial, endodontic treatment may not be needed. However, we may recommend monitoring the tooth to ensure the crack doesn't worsen.
  • When a crack has extended into the pulp (the soft tissue inside your tooth), root canal treatment is often necessary. This allows us to remove the damaged pulp, thoroughly clean and shape the inside of the root canals, and then seal the space to prevent further infection and restore your tooth. After endodontic treatment on posterior teeth, we recommend placing a crown to protect the tooth and prevent any existing cracks from getting worse or new cracks from forming.
  • If the crack extends below the gum line, it may not be salvageable. However, our team will explore every possible option to save your tooth or a portion of it before considering extraction. We're committed to preserving your natural smile whenever possible.

Why Choose APX Endodontics?

A cracked tooth can leave you with questions and uncertainty. At APX Endodontics, we prioritize clear, honest communication about your diagnosis and treatment options. Our practice is built on trust, expertise, and compassionate care, ensuring you feel informed and confident from the moment you walk through our doors.

Advanced Technology for Precise Diagnosis. We use 3D CBCT imaging to see the complete picture of your tooth and surrounding bone. This helps us accurately diagnose cracks and root fractures that standard 2D X-rays might miss. Our ZEISS operating microscopes provide enhanced visualization, allowing us to work with precision and preserve your natural tooth structure.

Specialized Expertise You Can Trust.
Dr. Ptak is a board-certified endodontist (Diplomate, American Board of Endodontics) and faculty member at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine. This specialized training and ongoing involvement in dental education means you receive care that combines proven techniques with the latest advances in endodontics.

A Modern, Comfortable Experience.
Our office is designed to feel welcoming, not clinical. Our team focuses on your comfort, and we offer sedation options like nitrous oxide (Laughing Gas) to help you feel at ease during treatment.

Collaborative and Compassionate Care.
We work closely with your general dentist to create a seamless treatment plan. Our approach is non-judgmental and focused on what matters most: getting you out of discomfort and restoring your dental health.

If you’re dealing with a cracked tooth, call or contact us today to schedule a consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cracked Teeth

How do I know if I have a cracked tooth?

Symptoms can vary, but commonly include discomfort when chewing, especially when you release biting pressure. You might also experience sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks. Sometimes the crack is visible, but often it's too small to see with the naked eye. If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it's worth having it checked out. We can use advanced imaging to diagnose cracks that aren't visible during a regular exam.

Can a cracked tooth heal on its own?

Unfortunately, no. Unlike bones, teeth can't heal themselves once they're cracked. Without treatment, cracks can worsen over time, allowing bacteria to enter your tooth and cause infection. The sooner we can treat a crack, the better chance we have of saving your tooth.

Is a cracked tooth a dental emergency?

If you're experiencing severe pain, swelling, or signs of infection, yes. Contact us right away. Even if your symptoms are mild, it's important to have a cracked tooth evaluated soon to prevent any damage from worsening.

Will I need a crown after treatment?

For posterior teeth that have undergone root canal treatment, we typically recommend a crown. The crown protects the tooth from further damage and prevents existing cracks from getting worse or new cracks from forming. Your referring dentist will place the crown after we complete the endodontic treatment.

What happens if I don't treat a cracked tooth?

An untreated crack can worsen over time, allowing bacteria to enter the tooth and cause infection. This can lead to more pain, potential tooth loss, and the spread of infection to surrounding tissues. Early treatment gives us the best chance of saving your tooth and preventing complications.

How long does treatment take?

Most cracked tooth treatments can be completed in one or two appointments, depending on the severity of the crack and your symptoms. We'll walk you through the expected timeline during your consultation.

Is the treatment painful?

We use local anesthesia to ensure you're comfortable throughout the procedure. We also offer sedation options like nitrous oxide if you're feeling anxious. Most patients tell us the treatment itself is much more comfortable than they were experiencing and that they only felt slight pressure.

Contact APX Endodontics Today

Dealing with tooth pain or concerned about a possible crack? Don’t wait for it to get worse. Call

or contact us today to schedule a consultation. Early treatment gives us the best chance of saving your tooth and relieving your discomfort.

Contact our office today to schedule your appointment!

APX Endo

ADDRESS

2285 Massachusetts Ave, Unit 103
Cambridge, 
MA 
02140

PHONE

Fax: 

617-789-0777