Understanding a Root Canal for Cracked Tooth
There are over 25 million root canal treatments completed every year in the United States. Some of these patients need a root canal for cracked tooth in order to save the tooth and prevent infection. Root canals are sometimes the tooth’s last chance before needing to be extracted.
In this article, we will break down what a root canal is and why it might be necessary in order to save your cracked tooth. We’ll also cover the root canal procedure and what you can expect after the appointment.
Table of Contents
Root Canal for Cracked Tooth
Root canals are a common treatment in order to fix an infected or inflamed tooth, but they are also important in saving a cracked tooth. A crack in a tooth can extend deep into the pulp chamber, which is the area that contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue. When this happens, it can cause inflammation and infection of the pulp, leading to pain, sensitivity, and even an abscess.
A root canal for cracked tooth may be your last chance before needing an extraction.
What is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a way to treat a tooth that is damaged badly or infected in order to prevent the need for a tooth extraction. Root canals are usually performed by an Endodontist, a dental specialist, and can be done in one easy appointment.
The procedure involves removing the infected or inflamed pulp while cleaning and disinfecting the inside of the tooth. Then, the tooth is filled and sealed to prevent further infection. This is a specialized procedure that costs more than a simple dental filling. Check out our Root Canal Cost article.
Root Canal Reasons
You may need a root canal if:
- A large crack in the tooth that extends to the pulp and nerves of the tooth and possibly down through the roots.
- You have a large, untreated cavity in the tooth that has reached the inside layer of the tooth.
- A bad infection is present in a tooth. Signs of an infection are a pimple or abscess at the gum line, facial swelling, or swollen gums creating pressure that does not go away.
- Continual pain that gets worse and does not go away. Pain may be present when sleeping or eating.
- Your tooth starts to change color and turns grey.
- Your tooth starts to become mobile or loose.
The Root Canal for Cracked Tooth Procedure
A root canal for cracked tooth is a very common procedure. It takes one simple appointment that may be up to 2 hours long.
- Prior to the root canal appointment, your dentist will diagnose your tooth and take x-rays to evaluate the problem. Then they may refer you to a root canal specialist.
- The tooth is numbed with a local anesthetic to ensure you’re comfortable throughout the procedure.
- The doctor will make a small opening in the top of the tooth to access the pulp chamber where the nerves live. The infected or inflamed pulp is removed, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and disinfected.
- Once the tooth is cleaned, a material is placed inside the tooth to fill the space left by the removed pulp and nerves, and a temporary filling is placed on top.
- A permanent filling or crown is usually placed on the tooth after roughly 2 weeks. This will protect the tooth and return it to its optimal function. It is usually completed by your regular dentist, not the root canal specialist.
If you’re debating not going through with the root canal for cracked tooth, check out our article Root Canal vs Extraction.
What is a Root Canal Temporary Filling?
A temporary filling is placed in the tooth after a root canal procedure is done to protect the tooth and prevent bacteria from entering. It will also prevent food from getting stuck in the tooth that feeds harmful bacteria. The temporary filling is used to shape the tooth in preparation for the final restoration, usually a permanent filling or a crown.
A root canal for cracked tooth can add stress to a tooth that is already stressed out prior to treatment. Placing a temporary filling will help the tooth relax and reduce any inflammation while promoting healing.
The temporary filling is made of a softer material than the permanent restoration. It will not provide the same level of protection. Therefore, it is important to avoid biting or chewing on the treated tooth until a permanent restoration is placed.
Do not put off receiving your permanent restoration after a root canal. The root canal for cracked tooth is fragile and can easily be damaged beyond repair.
Why You Need a Root Canal for Cracked Tooth
A root canal for cracked tooth is needed when the crack extends into the pulp chamber of the tooth, which is the area that contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue. This can cause inflammation of the pulp and lead to pain, and sensitivity.
If the cracked tooth is left untreated, the bacteria will continue to destroy the tooth and lead to an infection. A root canal untreated will lead to an infection that can compromise the tooth, permanently harm the supporting bone, and in rare cases become fatal.
For more information, check out our What Happens With an Untreated Root Canal article.
The Root Canal Recovery
A root canal recovery usually has minimal pain and discomfort that resolves itself quickly. After the procedure, the tooth may be sore for a day or two, and you may experience some mild pain and discomfort. For most, the mild discomfort can be treated with over-the-counter pain medication. Always follow the instructions from your doctor and the medicine’s manufacturer.
Most people return to their normal activities the next day. Sensitivity to temperatures and hard foods may be present for up to a few weeks. Avoid using that tooth as best as possible until the discomfort goes away.
As discussed earlier, the temporary filling isn’t as strong as a permanent restoration. It is important to maintain good oral hygiene and avoid eating hard or sticky foods on the root canal for cracked tooth until the permanent restoration is complete.
Check out our Root Canal Recovery Timeline for additional information.
Are Root Canal Necessary?
In most cases, root canals are necessary to save a tooth that is infected, inflamed, or badly damaged. If the pulp chamber, which contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue is compromised, then a root canal is necessary to save the tooth.
If left untreated, the infection can spread to the surrounding tissue and bone, and the tooth may need to be extracted. Additionally, a root canal can also prevent the spread of infection to other teeth, gums, or jaw.
However, not every toothache requires a root canal. Some teeth can be treated with other procedures, like dental fillings or crowns. Your dentist will determine the best course of treatment based on the specific condition of your tooth and your overall oral health.
The best way to prevent a root canal is through good oral hygiene. An ideal oral hygiene routine includes brushing 2 times a day for 2 minutes and flossing daily. A supportive diet is also equally as important as homecare to your oral health. See your dentist and dental hygienist at least every 6 months for routine dental cleanings and exams.
For more help in achieving a healthy oral hygiene routine, check out our articles below.
Cracked Tooth After a Root Canal
If your tooth cracked after receiving a root canal, your tooth may not be savable. It all depends on the depth of the crack and how much of the original tooth structure is compromised. If there’s not a lot of healthy tooth structure, then extraction is needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a cracked tooth after root canal feel like?
If you’ve already had a root canal and you think the tooth has cracked, you may not feel a big toothache. This is due to the removal of the pulp chamber that houses the nerves. Always consult your dentist if you think your root canal tooth has cracked to prevent infection.
Is a broken root canal tooth an emergency?
A broken root canal tooth can lead to an infection and pain in the mouth. If your tooth that has a root canal has cracked, avoid using the tooth. It’s also important to keep the area clean while being as gentle as possible until you see your dentist. Make an appointment as soon as possible to prevent further complications.
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