A cracked tooth doesn’t automatically mean extraction is necessary. In fact, many patients are relieved to learn that a cracked tooth can often be treated and saved—especially when it’s caught early.
For patients in La Grange, TX and nearby communities like Fayetteville, Schulenburg, Weimar, and Smithville, the key is understanding the type of crack and how far it extends. The depth of the crack and whether the inner portion of the tooth is affected determine whether your dentist can protect the tooth or if removal is the healthiest option.
What a Cracked Tooth Really Looks Like
Not all cracked teeth are easy to see—and not all cause immediate pain. Some cracks develop gradually over time, while others happen suddenly after biting down on something hard.
Common signs of a cracked tooth include:
- Pain when chewing or biting
- Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
- Discomfort that comes and goes
- A tooth that feels “off,” even without visible damage
Because a cracked tooth won’t heal on its own, even mild or intermittent symptoms are worth having checked by a dentist in La Grange.
When a Cracked Tooth Can Be Saved
One of the most common questions patients ask is, “Can my cracked tooth be saved?” In many cases, the answer is yes.
Depending on the severity of the crack, treatment may include:
- A dental crown to stabilize and protect the tooth
- Dental bonding for minor surface cracks
- A root canal for a cracked tooth if the nerve has been affected
These treatments are designed to preserve your natural tooth and stop the crack from spreading further—helping you avoid extraction whenever possible.
When Tooth Extraction Becomes the Best Option
Sometimes, removing a cracked tooth is the safest and most predictable choice. Extraction may be recommended when:
- The crack extends below the gum line
- The tooth cannot properly support a crown
- Infection has developed and cannot be controlled
- The tooth has split into separate sections
This is often what people mean when they ask, “How bad does a cracked tooth have to be to be pulled?” At CornerStone Dental, the goal is never to remove a tooth unnecessarily—it’s to protect your overall oral health and prevent ongoing pain or infection.
Why Waiting Can Make a Cracked Tooth Worse
A cracked tooth will not improve with time. In fact, delaying treatment often allows the crack to deepen and bacteria to enter the tooth.
Putting off care can lead to:
- Increasing pain or sensitivity
- Infection inside the tooth
- Fewer options to save the tooth
- More complex and costly treatment later
That’s why concerns about untreated cracked teeth are so common—and why addressing the problem early almost always leads to better outcomes.
Can a Cracked Tooth Cause an Infection?
Yes. Even a small crack can allow bacteria to reach the inner layers of the tooth, leading to infection.
If you’re experiencing cracked tooth pain when chewing or ongoing sensitivity, it’s important to have the tooth evaluated—even if the discomfort seems manageable at first.
When to See an Emergency Dentist for a Cracked Tooth
Some cracked teeth require prompt attention. Call your dentist right away if you notice:
- Sharp pain when biting
- Swelling around the tooth or gums
- Pain that worsens over time
- A visible fracture or missing piece of tooth
These symptoms are common reasons patients seek emergency dental care for a cracked tooth, especially when pain appears suddenly.
What Patients in La Grange, TX Should Know
For patients in La Grange and surrounding Fayette County communities, cracked teeth are a common reason for urgent dental visits. The good news? Many cracked teeth can be treated successfully without extraction when addressed early.
Prompt care often means:
- More treatment options
- Better long-term results
- Less disruption to your daily life
Expert Care for Cracked Teeth in La Grange, TX
If you think you may have a cracked tooth—or aren’t sure whether it can be saved—a professional evaluation can give you clear, confident answers.
At CornerStone Dental, patients in La Grange, TX receive honest guidance about cracked teeth, including when a tooth can be preserved and when extraction is the best choice for long-term health.
📞 Call (979) 968-9451 or schedule an appointment online to have your tooth evaluated and take the next step with confidence.
