Can a Root Canal Be Done on a Broken or Cracked Tooth?

You’re eating lunch, bite down, and—crack! A tooth breaks. Panic sets in. Can it be saved?

In many cases, yes. A root canal treatment might perhaps be the solution. This procedure is often used to save a tooth that’s been badly damaged or infected, including those with cracks or breaks. Acting fast can make all the difference.

Understanding Tooth Damage: Cracks vs. Breaks

Not all tooth injuries are the same. Some can be fixed with a simple filling. Others? Not so lucky.

What Is a Cracked Tooth?

A cracked tooth might not even be visible to the eye, but you’ll feel it. Types of cracks include:

• Hairline fractures: Tiny lines on the enamel, often harmless but sometimes painful.
• Craze lines: Shallow surface cracks that don’t go deep.
• Vertical cracks: These run down the length of the tooth and can be more serious.

What Is a Broken Tooth?

A broken tooth is usually more obvious. It might feel jagged or painful.

• Chipped tooth: Often minor, but may still need repair.
• Fractured cusp: A piece of the tooth breaks off, often around a filling.
• Severe break: A significant portion of the tooth is missing.
• Split tooth: The tooth is broken into distinct segments—often beyond saving.

How Does This Happen?

Most people aren’t expecting their teeth to break. But it can happen from:

• Chewing on hard foods or ice
• Using teeth to open packages
• Grinding your teeth at night
• Old fillings are giving way.
• Untreated cavities weaken the structure.

When Is a Root Canal Necessary?

Not every cracked or broken tooth needs a root canal. But if the inner pulp is exposed or infected, you’re going to need root canal therapy.

Here’s how you’ll know something’s wrong:

• Persistent pain, especially when chewing or touching the tooth
• Sensitivity to hot or cold long after the stimulus is gone
• Inflammation or tenderness in the gums near the tooth

These symptoms mean bacteria have likely reached the pulp, and it’s inflamed or infected.

Can a Root Canal Be Done on a Cracked Tooth?

Yes, but not always.

It Depends on the Crack

• Shallow cracks may not require much at all. A simple filling or bonding could fix it.
• Deeper cracks that extend into the pulp often need root canal treatment.
• Cracks below the gum line usually spell trouble and may require extraction.

Early treatment is everything. Waiting too long allows bacteria to spread, weakening the tooth from the inside. A root canal can stop the damage, but timing matters.

Can a Root Canal Be Done on a Broken Tooth?

Yes—if the root is still strong and intact.

Even if half your tooth has chipped off, a root canal can often clean up the infection and prepare the tooth for restoration.

Here’s What Happens:

• The pulp is removed.
• The inside of the tooth is cleaned and shaped.
• It’s sealed with a special filling.
• A dental crown is placed over it to restore function and appearance.

When Is It Too Far Gone?

If the break reaches below the gum or splits the tooth entirely, saving it might not be possible. In those cases, extraction and replacement are needed.

What Happens During a Root Canal for a Cracked or Broken Tooth?

It’s not as scary as it sounds.

Step-by-Step:

1. Examination: The dentist in Columbus, OH, takes an X-ray to see the extent of the damage.
2. Numbing: Local anesthesia is used to keep you comfortable.
3. Access: A small opening is made in the tooth to reach the pulp.
4. Cleaning: The diseased or injured pulp inside the tooth is carefully taken out.
5. Sealing: Dentists fill the cleaned root canals with a rubber-like substance known as gutta-percha.
6. Restoration: A crown is added to protect the tooth and restore your bite.

It can often be done in one or two visits.

VII. Risks and Limitations

Not every tooth can be saved, and not every root canal is guaranteed for life.

A Root Canal Might Not Work If:

• The crack runs below the gum line.
• The tooth is split in two.
• There’s too much structural loss.

A tooth can occasionally become reinfected, even after a root canal has been completed. That’s why regular checkups and good hygiene are so important.

Alternatives If a Root Canal Isn’t Possible

If your tooth can’t be saved, don’t worry—there are solid options.

Common Replacements:

• Dental implants: These types look, feel, and function like natural teeth.
• Bridges: Use surrounding teeth to hold an artificial one in place.
• Partial dentures: A removable option that can replace multiple missing teeth.

Losing a tooth doesn’t mean you have to live with a gap. Replacements protect your bite, help you chew properly, and restore your smile.

Preventing Future Tooth Damage

Don’t wait for a dental emergency to take action. Here are simple habits that protect your teeth long-term:

• Avoid chewing on hard candies, ice, or popcorn kernels.
• Protect your smile from grinding or impact injuries with a personalized mouthguard.
• Visit your trusted local dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.

Small changes today can save you from big procedures tomorrow.

Key Takeaway

Yes, prompt root canal treatment can often preserve a cracked or broken tooth. The key is to act fast and consult a professional as soon as you notice pain or damage. At Alpha Dental, we specialize in preserving natural smiles with expert care. Don’t wait—your tooth might be damaged, but it’s not beyond saving.