Cracked Teeth Treatment in Stillwater, MN

Advanced Diagnosis and Treatment for Cracked Teeth

At River Valley Endodontics, Dr. Ernest Reeh specializes in diagnosing and treating cracked teeth using advanced imaging, precision techniques, and customized restorative solutions. We provide expert care to patients in Stillwater, Oak Park Heights, Bayport, Lake Elmo, and Grant, MN, ensuring long-term tooth stability and function.

What Causes a Cracked Tooth?

Cracked teeth can occur due to a variety of factors, including:

• Biting down on hard foods (ice, nuts, hard candy)
• Teeth grinding (bruxism) causing excessive stress on the enamel
• Dental trauma or injury from sports or accidents
• Large fillings or restorations that weaken the tooth structure
• Sudden temperature changes (drinking something cold after a hot meal)

Some cracks are small and may not cause immediate symptoms, while others can lead to pain, infection, and tooth loss if not addressed promptly.

Signs You May Have a Cracked Tooth

A cracked tooth is not always visible, but common symptoms include:

• Sharp pain when chewing or biting
• Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
• Pain that comes and goes rather than constant discomfort
• Swelling or tenderness around the affected tooth
• A visible crack or line on the tooth

Early detection is key to preventing further damage and ensuring successful treatment.

Types of Cracked Teeth & Treatment Options

Cracks in teeth vary in severity, and the treatment approach depends on the type of fracture:

1. Craze Lines

• Tiny, surface-level cracks in the enamel
• Typically do not require treatment but may be monitored

2. Fractured Cusps

• A piece of the tooth’s chewing surface breaks off
• Can often be restored with a dental crown

3. Cracked Tooth (Extending into the Root)

• A crack starts in the enamel and extends toward the root
• Early treatment with a crown or root canal can save the tooth
• If the crack reaches the root, extraction may be necessary

4. Split Tooth

• The tooth is separated into two distinct parts
• May require extraction or advanced restorative procedures

5. Vertical Root Fracture

• A crack that begins at the root and extends upward
• Often goes undetected until infection develops
• Extraction or endodontic surgery may be needed

Our Cracked Teeth Treatment Process

At River Valley Endodontics, we take a comprehensive approach to diagnosing and treating cracked teeth:

1. Digital Imaging & Diagnosis

We use 3D imaging and high-resolution digital X-rays to assess the extent of the crack and determine the best course of action.

2. Customized Treatment Plan

Based on the severity and location of the crack, treatment may involve:

• Dental bonding for minor surface cracks
• Custom crowns to strengthen and protect the tooth
• Root canal therapy if the crack extends into the pulp
• Surgical intervention for deeper fractures affecting the root

3. Pain Management & Restoration

Our goal is to relieve pain, preserve your natural tooth, and ensure long-term function. We offer sedation options for patients with dental anxiety.

Why Choose River Valley Endodontics for Cracked Teeth Treatment?

• Expert Endodontic & Restorative Care – Dr. Ernest Reeh has over 30 years of experience treating cracked teeth with precision and skill.
• Advanced Imaging Technology – We use 3D imaging and digital X-rays to detect fractures that are not visible to the naked eye.
• Minimally Invasive Techniques – Our treatments focus on saving your natural tooth whenever possible.
• Sedation Options for Comfort – We provide sedation dentistry to ensure a stress-free, painless experience.