How Long Does It Take to Fix a Cracked Tooth?

A cracked tooth may seem minor at first, but it can quickly turn into a painful problem. Timely care makes all the difference. Curious about solutions and recovery time? This blog explains what causes cracks, how to spot the signs early, and what to expect during treatment so you can take action with confidence.

Common Causes of a Cracked Tooth

Teeth go through a lot every day. Chewing, grinding, accidents—they all wear on the enamel. While teeth are tough, they’re not invincible.

Here are some of the most common reasons cracks happen:

• Biting down on hard foods – Ice, nuts, hard candy, or unpopped popcorn kernels can create too much pressure.
• Trauma to the face – Accidents, sports injuries, or falls can lead teeth to chip, crack, or break.
• Teeth grinding (bruxism) – Constant pressure over time makes teeth more vulnerable.
• Large fillings or previous dental work – These can weaken the structure of the tooth.
• Sudden temperature changes – Eating something hot followed by cold can create stress in the enamel.

Your mouth works hard every day, and sometimes, it gives you warning signs before something serious happens. Pay attention to them.

Symptoms of a Cracked Tooth

Sometimes, a crack is visible. Other times, the signs are subtle. You might feel discomfort here and there, then sharp pain when you chew. Here’s what to watch for:

• Pain when chewing or releasing bite pressure
• Sensitivity to heat or cold that lingers
• Swelling around the tooth or gums
• Discomfort that comes and goes
• A visible line or chip on the tooth

The tricky thing? Not all cracks hurt right away. Some only cause issues when they deepen or expose the inner layers of the tooth. If any of these symptoms sound familiar, it’s time to take action. Waiting only makes the fix harder.

Treatment Options and How Long They Take

Now, to the real question—how long does it take to fix a cracked tooth? It depends on how deep or serious the crack is.

Here’s a breakdown of the most common treatments and their timelines:

1. Bonding or Filling

• When it’s used: For small surface cracks or chips
• Procedure time: Usually done in 1 visit
• Recovery: Immediate; you can eat normally after the numbing wears off

Bonding uses a tooth-colored resin to seal the crack and protect the tooth. It’s quick and cost-effective for minor damage.

2. Dental Crown

• When it’s used: For deeper cracks or after root canal treatment
• Procedure time: Typically two visits (1 for prepping and moulding, 1 for placing the crown)
• Recovery: Mild soreness for a day or two

Crowns act like helmets for your tooth. They cover and protect it fully, helping to prevent future cracks or infections.

3. Root Canal Therapy

• When it’s used: If the crack reaches the pulp (inner nerve)
• Procedure time: 1–2 visits
• Recovery: A few days for soreness to settle

Root canals clean out the infected or damaged pulp, alleviating pain and salvaging the tooth from extraction. Afterward, the tooth often needs a crown.

4. Tooth Extraction and Replacement

• When it’s used: If the crack goes below the gum line
• Procedure time: Extraction takes one visit; replacement (like an implant) may take a few months
• Recovery: A few days after extraction, longer for implant healing

If the tooth can’t be saved, getting it replaced with an implant or bridge can restore full function.

When Should You See a Dentist?

Don’t wait until the pain becomes unbearable. The right time to see a local dentist or a dentist in Edmonton, AB, is as soon as you notice something unusual.

Here’s when you should book an appointment:

• You feel a sudden or sharp pain when eating
• Do you notice a visible chip or line
• Your tooth feels “off” when you bite
• Cold or heat triggers lingering discomfort
• Your gums around one tooth feel swollen

Act early, and your treatment will likely be quicker and easier. Small cracks can often be handled in a single visit. But the longer you wait, the more involved the fix becomes.

For those unexpected situations and from the area, don’t hesitate to seek a dental office offering emergency dentistry in Edmonton, AB. Early attention can prevent root canals or extractions.

Final Thoughts

Don’t wait for a small crack to become a bigger concern. Quick action leads to lasting comfort and fewer complications. At Kensington Dental Clinic, we’re ready to help restore your smile with care that fits your needs. Book your appointment today—your path to relief starts now. Strong, healthy teeth are just a visit away.