BY TOFTWOOD DENTAL PRACTICE
23 December 2025
Table of Contents
A cracked tooth is a common dental problem that can cause discomfort, sensitivity, and, if left untreated, more serious complications. Cracks can happen for many reasons, like biting hard sweets, grinding teeth, or experiencing an injury. Understandably, many people worry when they first notice a fracture.
Fortunately, most cracked teeth can be repaired, but the type of treatment needed depends on the extent of the damage. Acting quickly is vital, as early treatment can prevent the crack from worsening or leading to infection.
Today, we explain how dentists diagnose and treat cracked teeth, what symptoms to look out for, and how to prevent further damage.
Symptoms of a Cracked Tooth
Not all cracked teeth are immediately visible. Common signs of tooth damage include pain when chewing, sensitivity to hot or cold foods, and discomfort that comes and goes. A cracked tooth may show one or more of the following symptoms:
- Sharp pain when biting or chewing
- Sensitivity to temperature or sweet foods
- Swelling around the affected tooth
- Intermittent pain rather than constant pain
- A visible line or fracture on the tooth
- Pain when releasing pressure after biting
If you notice these symptoms, especially after biting something hard, you should book a dental appointment as soon as possible.
Can a Dentist Fix a Cracked Tooth?
Yes. Dentists can fix most cracked teeth using restorative treatments that repair or protect the tooth. The specific treatment depends on the cause, location, and severity of the crack.
A dentist will typically begin with:
- A visual examination
- A dental X-ray to assess internal damage
- A bite test to determine the extent of the fracture
- A sensitivity assessment
Early treatment is key. Delayed care increases the risk of infection or tooth loss. For patients in Norfolk looking for a reliable practice, Toftwood Dental provides comprehensive restorative dentistry, including dental implants in Dereham.
If you suspect you have cracked a tooth, contact Toftwood Dental today to arrange an assessment and protect your oral health.
How to Fix a Cracked Tooth
Dentists use different treatments depending on how deep or extensive the crack is. Below are the most common options and when they are recommended.
Dental veneers
Dental veneers are thin porcelain or composite shells bonded to the front surface of the tooth. They are used when:
- The crack is superficial
- The damage is cosmetic rather than structural
- The tooth remains strong and healthy underneath
Veneers restore appearance and protect against further damage, making them ideal for minor cracks or chipped front teeth.
Dental Crown
A dental crown is often recommended for cracks that are deeper or affecting the chewing surface. Crowns cover the entire tooth, providing strength and stability when the structure has been weakened.
A crown may be used when:
- A crack extends across the tooth but has not reached the root
- Significant loss of tooth structure
- The patient experiences pain when biting
Crowns are commonly used to prevent the crack from progressing.
Dental bonding
Dental bonding involves applying a tooth-coloured composite resin to fill or seal small cracks. This option is suitable for:
- Minor surface cracks (craze lines)
- Small chips
- Hairline fractures that do not affect the tooth’s internal structure
Bonding is a quick, minimally invasive procedure often completed in a single visit.
Root canal therapy
When a crack extends into the pulp (the inner nerve and blood supply), infection becomes likely. Root canal therapy is the recommended treatment to remove damaged or infected tissue and save the tooth.
A root canal is required if:
- The patient experiences persistent pain
- Swelling or signs of infection
- The crack has reached the pulp chamber
After root canal therapy, a crown is usually placed to restore full strength.
Tooth extraction
Unfortunately, not all cracked teeth can be saved. If the crack extends below the gumline or splits the tooth into separate sections, the tooth may need to be removed.
Dental extraction is recommended when:
- The tooth is fractured vertically into the root
- No longer structurally viable
- Infection is severe and cannot be treated
If extraction is necessary, many patients choose replacement options such as dental implants in Toftwood, bridges, or dentures to restore function and appearance.
Tips on Preventing a Tooth from Cracking
You can reduce the risk of cracked teeth by adopting simple preventive habits:
- Avoid chewing hard items like ice, unpopped popcorn kernels, or pen caps
- Wear a mouthguard if you grind your teeth at night
- Use a protective sports mouthguard for contact sports
- Maintain regular dental check-ups
- Brush with fluoride toothpaste and follow good oral hygiene routines
- Avoid sudden temperature changes, such as biting ice after drinking something hot
- Treat cavities early to prevent weakened enamel
Following these steps helps protect your teeth and reduces the likelihood of future fractures.
FAQs
Can a cracked tooth repair itself?
No. According to the NHS, teeth do not heal themselves. While enamel cannot regenerate, early dental treatment can prevent further damage.
How much does it cost to fix a cracked tooth?
Costs vary depending on the treatment required—for example, bonding is usually cheaper than crowns or root canal therapy. Your dentist will provide a tailored estimate after examining the tooth.
How long does it take to fix a cracked tooth?
Minor cracks may be repaired in a single visit. Crowns and root canals may take multiple appointments, depending on complexity.
Can a cracked tooth cause dizziness?
Not directly, but severe dental infections may cause referred symptoms or general unwellness. Always seek a dental review if symptoms persist.
Can a cracked tooth cause an infection?
Yes. If bacteria enter the crack, it can infect the pulp, leading to pain, swelling, and the need for root canal therapy.
Ready to Restore Your Smile?
If you’re concerned about a cracked tooth or want to prevent future problems, book an appointment with Toftwood Dental for expert advice and personalised care.
This content is for informational purposes only. Consult a professional for personal advice.
Share this article:
Factors that make healing faster or slower include:
- Whether bone grafting or sinus lift surgery was needed.
- Your overall health (for example, diabetic control, immune function and nutrition).
- Smoking or vaping: both slow healing and increase the risk of failure.
- The implant’s position: upper jaw sites can take longer than lower jaw.
- How carefully you follow after-care and cleaning instructions.
Root canal therapy
Latest Posts
Professional whitening compared to over-the-counter kits
Table of contents 1. What is teeth whitening?2. How teeth whitening works3. Cons of over the counter whitening4. Pros of professional whitening5. Why should I get my teeth whitened by a Dental professional and not use an over-the-counter shop bought product?6. Are you a good candidate for teeth whitening?7. Conclusion Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic dental treatment designed to brighten yournatural smile by reducing the appearance of stains and discolouration. Over time,factors such as food, drink, smoking, ageing, and certain medications can causeteeth to darken. Professional teeth whitening by your dentist offers a safe, effectivesolution by using clinically approved whitening agents under dental supervision,delivering noticeable, even results while protecting your teeth and gums.This blog helps to explain why professional teeth whitening with a dental professionalis the safer option over using over-the-counter whitening products that can bepurchased from a supermarket or pharmacy. What is teeth whitening? Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental treatment which uses chemicals to lighten thecolour of your natural teeth. Whitening can reduce stains and discolouration fromcoffee, tea, red wine, smoking, ageing, and certain medications.Professional teeth whitening uses clinically approved whitening agents to breakdown these stains, helping your smile look brighter and more refreshed. Whencarried out or supervised by a dental professional, whitening is a safe and effectiveway to enhance your smile while protecting your tooth enamel and gums. How teeth whitening works? Professional teeth whitening uses a safe whitening gel, usually containing hydrogenperoxide, to lighten the natural colour of your teeth. The process works by: Penetrating the enamel to reach deeper stains within the tooth. Breaking down the stains caused by food, drink, smoking, and ageing. Lightening the tooth colour without damaging or removing tooth structure.  Professional teeth whitening is carefully controlled by dental professionals toprotect your teeth and gums. Creating a brighter and more even looking smile. Over-the-counter whitening Poor fit – “One size fit’s all†trays or whitening strips can lead to patchy orinconsistent whitening. As everybody has different sized jaws, it is veryunlikely these whitening trays will feel comfortable in the mouth. Irritation – Incorrect use can cause tooth sensitivity or gum irritation. Less effective – Lower whitening strength often means less noticeableresults. In the UK whitening products sold in shops are limited to 0.1%hydrogen peroxide to ensure safety. No dental assessment – Underlining issues like decay or gum disease arenot addressed, therefore untreated prior to whitening. Enamel risk – Incorrect product use can damage enamel or worsen existingsensitivity. Professional whitening Teeth whitening carried out by a dental professional is a much safer and reliableoption with guaranteed results. Clinical before photos may be taken on your initialconsultation process to ensure whitening progress is being made throughout yourjourney. Safer treatment – Supervised by a dental professional at all times to protectyour teeth and gums. Better results – Stronger, clinically approved whitening agents for morenoticeable whitening. Professional whitening products use a higherpercentage of either hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide than over thecounter. These products with a higher percentage can only be provided onprescription by a dental professional. Even finish – Custom made trays ensure consistent, natural looking results. Tailored treatment plan and care – Treatment is customised to your teeth,goals, and sensitivity levels. Longer lasting results – Professional whitening tends to last longer withproper aftercare. Expert guidance – Your dentist can advise on maintaining results andreducing sensitivity. Why should I get my teeth whitened by a Dental professional and not use a shop bought product? When it comes to deciding whether you should get your teeth whitened by a DentalProfessional or buy a whitening kit from a shop, it is very important you carry outyour research. Although shop bought whitening kits may seem like they are a moreaffordable option, there are many reasons for their price tag. There are manydifferent products on the market, but they will never be able to deliver the result youare looking for in a safe way. Results – Professional teeth whitening uses stronger but carefullyadministered chemical agents which can lighten teeth up to 16 shades. Shopbought kits use a low whitening agent or use a “blue light technology†which isjust a placebo effect. The bright blue light is often just used as a timer ratherthan an activating agent. Customisation – Most of shop bought products are usually “one size fits allâ€which is not true. Everyone has a different sized jaw, which usually varies inwidth. Using a whitening tray that doesn’t fit your mouth correctly, may lead tothe whitening agent to spill out of the edges, or not even meet the teeth at all.Dental professionals use custom made trays by taking impressions, this way itensures the gel stays on the teeth, providing an even, effective coveragewithout leaking. Safety and protection – Sometimes, you may not be applicable to undergoteeth whitening. It is advisable that you have your dental health checked firstto ensure you are suitable for whitening. Whitening may not be applicable ifyou have dental caries, or poor gum health. A dentist will ensure to carry outany treatment confirming your mouth is stable to start whitening treatment. Long lasting results – Professional dental treatments can often last longer,usually up to 2 years with regular reviews Are you a good candidate for teeth whitening? Not everyone is a candidate for teeth whitening. You are usually a good candidate forteeth whitening if: Your teeth are healthy and there is no tooth decay present or active gumdisease. Your discolouration is from staining from tea, coffee, wine, smoking or somefood. You do not have front white fillings, crowns or veneers. You are not pregnant or breast feeding. You do not suffer from severe teeth whitening. Teeth whitening is an effective cosmetic treatment that can significantly enhance theappearance of your smile when carried out safely and correctly. While over thecounter whitening products may appear convenient and more cost effective, theyoften deliver limited and uneven, with potential risks to your enamel and gums. Incontrast, professional teeth whitening is carefully assessed and supervised by adental professional to ensure both safety and optimal results. Ultimately, choosingprofessional teeth whitening
What Are Mini Dental Implants?
Learn about mini dental implants, how they work, their advantages, costs and who they’re best suited for in this easy-to-follow guide.
All-On-4 Dental Implants Explained
Considering All-on-4 dental implants? Learn what they are, how they work, benefits, costs and who’s a good candidate in this complete step-by-step guide.
How Much Do Dental Implants Cost: Breaking Down The Price
Find out the real cost of dental implants in the UK. Explore average prices, what impacts cost and ways to make treatment more affordable.
Dental Implants vs. Dentures: Pros, Cons and What’s Best For YouÂ
Discover the key differences between dental implants and dentures, including benefits, drawbacks, costs and care tips to help you make an informed choice for your smile and oral health.
Does Getting Braces or Implants Hurt? What to Expect Before, During and After
Wondering if getting braces or dental implants hurts? Learn what to expect before, during and after treatment, plus tips for managing discomfort and recovery.
Dentist in Dereham
Become a patient by contacting us today!