Treatment usually involves extraction of the tooth, but sometimes endodontic surgery can save a portion of the tooth. Unlike a broken bone, the fracture in a cracked tooth will never completely heal. In fact, even after treatment, it is possible that a crack may continue to worsen and separate, resulting in the loss of the tooth. Despite the possibility for the tooth to worsen, the treatment you receive is important. It will relieve your pain and reduce the chances that the crack will worsen.
Most cracked teeth continue to function for years after treatment.
Your dentist or endodontist will be able to tell you more about your particular diagnosis and treatment recommendations. While cracked teeth are not completely preventable, you can take some steps to make your teeth less susceptible to cracks. Don't chew on hard objects such as ice, unpopped popcorn kernels or pens. Don't clench or grind your teeth. If you clench or grind your teeth while you sleep, talk to your dentist about getting a retainer or other mouthguard to protect your teeth.