Did you bite down on something and suddenly break a tooth? Or maybe you took a hard hit to the face that caused a tooth to crack? Visit our specialized dentists as soon as possible to prevent serious oral health problems.
Today, we’ll explain what a fractured tooth is, the different degrees of damage, the most common causes, and what to do if it happens to you.
🦷 What Is a Fractured Tooth?
A fractured or broken tooth results from trauma or injury that causes one or more teeth to crack. It can range from a small enamel line to a complete break. This condition is also referred to as a cracked tooth syndrome.
Tooth fractures may be caused by biting hard objects (like candy), habits such as teeth grinding, direct facial trauma, or even weakened teeth due to large fillings or root canal treatments.
A study conducted at the University Dental Clinic of Vienna, which analyzed the prevalence and patterns of traumatic dental injuries (TDI) in permanent teeth, found that the upper central incisors (your two front upper teeth) are the most commonly affected by fractures, followed by the lateral upper incisors. Most cases were the result of falls.
🦷 Types of Tooth Fractures
Not all tooth fractures are the same. They’re classified based on how deep the damage is and what kind of treatment is needed:
🩺 Enamel Fracture
This is the most superficial type. The damage is limited to the outer, hardest layer of the tooth: the enamel, which acts as its protective shield. These cracks don’t reach the dentin (the sensitive layer underneath) or the pulp (the center of the tooth where nerves and blood vessels are).
They’re usually painless or only cause slight discomfort and minor aesthetic issues. Treatment is typically simple—a small resin restoration is often enough.
In Ellis’ classification, this is a Class I fracture.
🩺 Enamel and Dentin Fracture
This type of fracture goes deeper, reaching the dentin—a porous layer that contains microscopic tubules connected to the tooth’s pulp. This can cause sensitivity to cold, heat, or sweets.
In these cases, the exposed dentin must be sealed and the pulp protected from infection or further damage. Treatment can range from a resin restoration to a dental crown, depending on the extent of the fracture.
According to Ellis, this is a Class II fracture.
🩺 Enamel, Dentin, and Pulp Fracture
This is a more severe and urgent case. The fracture is deep enough to expose the dental pulp, meaning the tooth’s nerves and blood vessels are now vulnerable. This causes intense pain, extreme sensitivity, and a high risk of infection.
You should see a dentist immediately to save the tooth. A root canal is often required to remove the infected pulp. Afterward, a crown is placed to protect the remaining structure and restore your smile’s appearance.
Ellis classifies this as a Class III fracture.
🩺 Root Fracture
This is the deepest type of fracture, occurring below the gum line. These injuries are difficult to diagnose because they’re not always visible and may not affect the enamel at all. They often go unnoticed until the patient feels pain when pressure is applied.
The outcome varies depending on whether the fracture is horizontal or vertical, and how extensive it is. In many cases, the affected tooth must be extracted and replaced with a dental implant.
Root fractures are not part of the Ellis classification, which focuses on crown fractures.
🛡️ Our Recommendation for Protecting Your Teeth
If you know that you suffer from bruxism (teeth grinding or clenching), we highly recommend visiting your dentist every six months for regular check-ups.
To help reduce the intensity of clenching, Botox treatment for the TMJ can be very effective, and using a night guard while sleeping adds an extra layer of protection.
These preventive measures can go a long way in preserving your teeth and avoiding unnecessary damage over time.
🩻 Diagnosing Tooth Fractures
At Shtern Dental Clinic, our specialists will examine your teeth and gums for signs of inflammation or damage. In some cases, X-rays are necessary to detect a fracture and assess root involvement.
If an X-ray doesn’t provide sufficient information, a CT scan may be recommended to evaluate pulp tissue damage.
📍 Common Symptoms
Symptoms of fractured teeth vary depending on the type and severity of the trauma. Some patients show no symptoms at all, while others may experience:
✅ Pain when chewing or biting
✅ Sensitivity to hot or cold
✅ Swollen gums
✅ Fever (in case of infection)
✅ A visible crack or chip in the tooth
🛠️ Treatment for Tooth Fractures
The treatment depends on the type, severity, and location of the fracture. Options include:
✅ Restoration – Minor enamel fractures are typically treated with resin fillings to close cracks and restore aesthetics.
✅ Root Canal Therapy – If the damage extends to the pulp, a root canal is performed to remove the infected tissue.
✅ Dental Implant – When the nerve and root are irreparably damaged, the tooth must be extracted and replaced with an implant to restore function and appearance.
🧼 How to Prevent Tooth Fractures
To help prevent tooth fractures:
✅ Practice good oral hygiene to avoid cavities
✅ Visit your dentist twice a year for cleanings
✅ Don’t bite down on hard objects
✅ Cut hard foods like apples into small pieces
✅ Wear a nightguard if you grind your teeth
✅ Use a helmet, seatbelt, and mouthguards during sports or high-risk activities
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
❓ How do I know if I have a fractured tooth?
If the fracture affects the enamel or dentin, you’ll likely see a visible crack or missing piece. If it affects the root, you may experience constant, throbbing pain even without pressure.
❓ Is a fractured tooth painful?
Yes. Fractured teeth can cause pain, especially if the dentin or nerves are involved. With root fractures, the pain may be intermittent or occur only when biting or applying pressure.
❓ How much does it cost to fix a fractured tooth?
The cost varies depending on the severity, type of treatment needed, and how many teeth are involved. For instance, enamel fractures are usually less expensive since they require only a filling, while root fractures can be more costly due to extraction and implant placement.
Schedule a consultation at Shtern Dental Clinic so we can examine your case and create a personalized treatment plan.
❓ Can fractured teeth be prevented?
Yes, many fractures are preventable. For example, if you play contact sports like soccer, wearing a mouthguard can protect your teeth from impact.
