Yes — depending on the severity and location of the crack.
If you’ve noticed a crack in your tooth — or felt sudden pain when chewing — you may be wondering if it can be fixed. The good news? In many cases, cracked teeth can be repaired with dental bonding or a dental crown, without the need for extraction.
But the right solution depends on how deep and severe the crack is.
Let’s walk through the different types of cracks, how dentists decide on treatment, and when bonding or crowns can save your tooth.
🔍 Types of Cracks in Teeth
Not all cracks are the same. Dentists classify them into categories:
- Craze Lines: Tiny, shallow cracks in the enamel. Usually painless and cosmetic. No treatment needed unless for aesthetics.
- Fractured Cusp: A piece of the tooth (usually near a filling) breaks off. May cause sensitivity but usually doesn’t reach the nerve. Often repaired with a crown.
- Cracked Tooth (Vertical): Crack extends from the biting surface down toward the root. May cause pain when chewing or releasing pressure. May require a crown, and in some cases, a root canal if the pulp is affected.
- Split Tooth: A full crack divides the tooth into two segments. Usually not repairable — extraction may be required.
- Vertical Root Fracture: Begins at the root and spreads toward the surface. Often goes unnoticed until infection sets in. Usually not treatable — extraction is typically recommended.
💡 When Can Bonding Be Used to Fix a Cracked Tooth?
Dental bonding can be used when:
- The crack is minor and superficial.
- It affects only the outer enamel or a small chip.
- There’s no pain or pulp exposure.
- The crack is visible and cosmetic in nature (especially on front teeth).
Bonding involves applying a tooth-coloured resin to the crack, then shaping and polishing it to match the natural tooth. It’s non-invasive and usually completed in one visit.
🕒 Durability: 3–8 years depending on wear, location, and habits like grinding or biting hard foods.
👑 When Is a Crown the Better Option?
A dental crown is typically recommended when:
- The crack is deeper or involves a large portion of the tooth.
- You feel pain when chewing or biting.
- The tooth is structurally weakened.
- There’s a fractured cusp or large filling.
A crown covers the entire tooth and holds it together, preventing the crack from spreading further. It also restores full function and appearance.
Crowns are custom-made and placed over 1–2 visits, or even the same day if your clinic offers digital crown technology.
🕒 Longevity: Crowns typically last 10–15 years or more with proper care.
🧪 What About Root Canals?
If the crack has extended into the pulp (nerve) of the tooth, a root canal may be needed before placing a crown. This removes the inflamed tissue and prevents infection while preserving the tooth.
Signs you might need a root canal include:
- Persistent pain or throbbing
- Sensitivity to hot and cold
- Swelling or tenderness near the gumline
- Pain when biting or chewing
✅ Quick Recap: Bonding vs. Crown for a Cracked Tooth
| Factor | Bonding | Crown |
|---|---|---|
| Crack Depth | Minor/surface level | Moderate to deep |
| Tooth Strength | Still strong | Weakened or at risk of breaking |
| Location | Front or visible tooth | Back teeth or molars |
| Treatment Time | One visit | One or two visits |
| Durability | 3–8 years | 10–15+ years |
🦷 Final Thoughts
Yes — many cracked teeth can be saved with bonding or a crown, especially if the damage is caught early. The key is getting assessed promptly before the crack spreads or leads to nerve damage.
Think you may have a cracked tooth? Book an appointment today — our dental team will examine the tooth, explain your treatment options, and help restore your comfort and confidence, without unnecessary procedures.