Best Treatment Options for a Cracked Tooth: Crown vs Root Canal

A cracked tooth can be a minor inconvenience or a serious dental problem, depending on how deep the damage goes. You might notice tooth pain when you bite down, sensitivity to hot and cold, or discomfort that comes and goes. 

 The right treatment depends on the severity and location of the crack, and, in many cases, the choice comes down to a dental crown or a root canal. At Austin Center for Endodontics in Austin, TX, our team helps patients understand their options and get the care they need to protect their smile. If you have a split tooth or suspect a crack, call today to schedule a consultation. 

What causes a cracked tooth? 

So, what causes a cracked tooth? There are several ways it can happen, and some causes are more obvious than others. Common culprits include:  

• Chewing or biting down on hard foods 
• Grinding or clenching your teeth 
• A blow to the mouth from an accident or sports injury 
• A large existing filling that weakens the surrounding tooth structure 
• Natural aging, which makes teeth more brittle over time 

Some cracks are more visible, while others are nearly impossible to detect without a professional evaluation. This is why unexplained tooth pain should never be ignored, even when nothing looks obviously wrong. 

Dental crown treatment for a cracked tooth 

For a split tooth or a crack that hasn't reached the inner pulp of the tooth, a dental crown is often the recommended solution. A crown fits over the entire visible part of the tooth, holding it together and preventing the crack from spreading further. It restores both the function and appearance of the tooth while shielding it from additional damage. Dental crown treatment is typically completed in just a couple of visits and is one of the most reliable ways to protect a compromised tooth. 

When a root canal procedure is necessary 

If a crack has reached the pulp, which is the soft tissue at the center of the tooth, a root canal becomes necessary. Tooth pain that is severe, persistent, or accompanied by swelling is often a sign that the damage has gone that far. During a root canal, the affected pulp is removed, the inside of the tooth is cleaned out and sealed, and a crown is placed on top. 

Rest assured that a root canal procedure is a routine treatment, and it gives patients one of the best chances to keep their natural tooth long term. 

Booking a consultation with our team 

If you suspect a cracked tooth, a consultation is the right place to start. At Austin Center for Endodontics in Austin, TX, we will review your symptoms, take any necessary imaging, and carefully examine the tooth to determine the extent of the damage. From there, we can walk you through your options so you can make an informed decision about your care. 

Whether the situation calls for a dental crown, a root canal procedure, or another option, we ensure you understand exactly what to expect before moving forward. 

Protect your smile and long-term oral health 

Waiting too long to treat a cracked tooth can lead to bigger problems in the future. If you have questions such as, "What causes a cracked tooth?" or "Do I need a root canal or a dental crown treatment for a split tooth?", our staff is ready to help. At Austin Center for Endodontics in Austin, TX, we are committed to helping people preserve their natural teeth and relieve pain as quickly as possible. Call today to learn more and book your consultation.