Here's an ouch-worthy fact: over 66% of all dental patients have at least one cracked molar!

Cracked teeth can happen to anyone as the result of an accident, tough foods, teeth grinding, or simply aging. If you suspect that you have a cracked tooth, it's important to have the damage assessed right away. 



But what can a dentist do to treat cracked teeth? And how much does tooth repair cost? 

Read on to learn all about the processes involved in cracked tooth repair. 

How Do Dentists Repair a Cracked Tooth?

The treatment for a cracked tooth depends on the location, type, and severity of the crack. Every case is different, so it's important to visit your dentist as soon as possible to repair a cracked tooth.

Your teeth consist of two basic parts: the crown, which sits above your gums, and the root, which hides under the gum tissue. Teeth also have three layers: the outer enamel, a middle layer of dentin, and the soft inner pulp. Teeth can crack or break anywhere, and a deep or decaying crack may reach the inner pulp. 

Common Types of Tooth Cracks

Before your dentist can determine the proper tooth repair procedure, they'll need to assess the damage. Although teeth seem like relatively simple organs, they can be very delicate and sensitive, and commonly experience chips, cracks, and breaks.

Chipped Tooth

Age, chewing hard foods, grinding teeth, and trauma can all lead to chips in the teeth. Chips usually only affect the enamel, so they don't cause any pain or functional problems. If you worry about the cosmetic appearance of a chipped or cracked front tooth, repair may be an option. 

Split Tooth

A split tooth occurs when the tooth cracks vertically, splitting the tooth into two or more pieces. These kinds of breaks usually start with a crack that goes untreated. Over time, the crack deepens, and enough pressure can cause the tooth to split. 

A split tooth may feel especially sensitive and is often painful when you bite down. This is because the separate tooth pieces are shifting and digging into the nerves of your gums. 

Sudden Break

Sudden tooth breaks are usually the result of some kind of trauma or accident. Sudden breaks can expose the nerve, typically causing sensitivity, bleeding, and pain. Dislodged teeth may accompany these kinds of incidents, which require emergency dental services. 

Broken Cusp

The crown of your tooth has pointed cusps that help with chewing. Sometimes, these individual cusps can break away from the rest of the tooth. Broken cusps don't usually cause much pain because they don't reach the pulp of the tooth. 

Decayed Tooth Break

In cases of untreated cavities, the tooth may begin to decay from the inside out. This decay can eventually reach the dentin and enamel and weaken them. Eventually, applied pressure can cause the tooth to break. 

Vertical Root Fracture



Unlike most cracks, vertical root fractures begin at the root of the tooth, usually underneath the gums. In left untreated, the crack may grow upwards and eventually create a split tooth. If the root becomes infected, pain, inflammation, and tooth decay can occur.

Cracked Tooth Repair Treatments

Depending on the severity of damage to your tooth, your dentist may decide to use one or more of the following treatments. In general, deep cracks and split teeth will extensive require more repair than a simple chip, which may be left alone.

Cosmetic Contouring

Dentists use cosmetic contouring to smooth and polish the rough edges of a cracked or chipped tooth. In some cases, like a broken cusp, cosmetic contouring may be the only tooth repair necessary. Cosmetic contouring could also be performed in combination with one of the other treatments listed here. 

Dental Bonding

Dental bonding, sometimes called composite bonding is a cosmetic treatment that can restore the shape and size of your cracked tooth. The dentist will roughen the tooth, apply tooth-colored resin, then smooth out the resin so it blends seamlessly into the tooth. Dental bonding is a common treatment for cracked tooth crown repair and cracked front tooth repair. 

Dental Veneer

Porcelain veneers are like ceramic shells that adhere to your teeth. Veneers can solve a variety of cosmetic concerns, including chipped, broken discolored, and small teeth. Veneers are a permanent decision and must be replaced after several years.

Dental Crown

A dental crown can restore a cracked tooth's function, shape, and appearance. Crowns are most often used for inner teeth and molars that haven't cracked down to the root. If the tooth is severely cracked or split, a dental crown may not be enough to stabilize and protect it. 

Root Canal

In some cases, a root canal is necessary to prevent further damage to the tooth. The dentist will remove infected or exposed pulp during a root canal, then apply antibiotics to the canal and seal the tooth with a crown. This procedure preserves the structural integrity of your tooth and allows the inflamed pulp to heal. 

Tooth Extraction



If a tooth is severely cracked or split and the nerves show damage, tooth extraction may be the best treatment option. After the extraction has healed, you may be able to have a dental implant put in for cosmetic and chewing purposes. 

Cracked Tooth Repair Cost

With so many treatment options available, the cost can vary widely. The following list shows the average prices for each treatment above. For a more accurate amount, ask your dentist for a repair cost estimate.



• Cosmetic contouring: $50 to $500
• Dental bonding: $150 to $500
• Dental veneer: $1000+
• Dental crown: $800+
• Root canal: $400 to $1400
• Tooth extraction: $100 to $300 

Crack a Smile Again

Your natural, permanent teeth are one of the most valuable gifts you have in life. To avoid having a dental catastrophe, it's crucial to take care of your teeth, practice good oral hygiene, and visit your dentist for regular cleanings and repairs. 

Are you suffering from a painful, cracked tooth? Looking for a compassionate dentist in Roseville, CA? 



When life happens, GKS Family Dentistry will be by your side. We offer cracked tooth repair, cosmetic, and emergency dental services to help you start smiling again. Don't wait until your pain becomes unbearable, request an appointment today!