Can a Cracked Tooth be Saved with a Root Canal and Crown?

When you crack a tooth, there are multiple tools and techniques to repair the damage. However, there is one option that stands above the rest: the dental crown. A crown is a cap, typically consisting of porcelain that matches the shape and size of the tooth. The crown acts as a strong cover that protects the tooth from infection and losing the tooth. Without the crown, the tooth will not even be able to handle the pressure of chewing. It is important to treat a cracked tooth as soon as possible by seeking treatment from a professional endodontist.

Illustration of a painful cracked tooth

Symptoms of a cracked tooth

To understand the symptoms of a cracked tooth, it is crucial to understand that the teeth have layers. The outer layer is known as the enamel, followed by the dentin and then the pulp. The dental pulp contains the nerves and blood vessels. If the pulp begins to move around or the crack is severe enough to damage the pulp, you will begin to feel intense pain. Symptoms of a crack in a tooth:
Since it can be difficult to identify the source of the pain beyond the teeth, we recommend scheduling an appointment as soon as possible. When one cracks the outer layer of the tooth, there is a possibility of the inner parts of the tooth moving around and causing irritation. In other cases, the crack can be deep enough that an infection forms in the dental pulp.
Without specialized treatment, the infection will spread to the bones and surrounding gums, causing a specialist to have to consider extracting teeth in serious cases. Fortunately, you can avoid all of those issues by seeking professional treatment from an endodontist. If you seek treatment to repair a tooth before the crack allows an infection into the tooth, then a dental crown will be the most effective fix.

The dental crown process

By customizing the crown, the endodontist can ensure that the crown fits properly on the tooth and the surrounding teeth. Not only will the crown protect the tooth, it will also have the appearance of a natural tooth. This way, people will not be able to notice that it is artificial in the first place. In order to place a dental crown, the patient will have to make at least two appointments.
During the first appointment, we will take measurements and a mold of the tooth. In some cases, the endodontist may need to remove a bit more of the tooth to place the crown. However, it may be better to place the crown without altering the tooth further. If the endodontist offers same day Dentistry, then you will be able to get the crown that day. Otherwise, a dental lab will then customize the crown to the exact specifications of the mold. Once the crown is complete, the patient will return for a second appointment to place the crown.
The endodontist will place the crown and cement it in place. This way, the patient will be able to eat and use the tooth without worry. Contrary to popular belief, you will not need to stop eating your favorite foods with a dental crown. However, you may need to come in for some maintenance every few years.

Taking care of a dental crown

Since a dental crown is artificial, you will not need to worry about the crown becoming infected. However, you will need to continue cleaning the teeth and gums, being sure to keep any food from sticking to the crown. It is also beneficial to avoid biting down directly on anything that is too hard and avoid causing other damage.
By having an endodontist repair your tooth, you will not have to worry about the dental crown falling out or becoming loose. A dental crown is an effective solution to repair the cracked tooth in most cases. However, if a more invasive procedure is necessary, then an endodontist is the best place to be.
If you are struggling with a chipped or cracked tooth, do not hesitate to call today. It is crucial to seek professional treatment as soon as possible. Thanks to the easy level of care a dental crown requires, few people experience any difficulties with their dental crowns. Seek treatment today to save your tooth tomorrow.

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Dr. Adam Kwiatkowski

Dr. Adam Kwiatkowski

Dr. Adam Kwiatkowski is a highly skilled cosmetic and implant dentist, driven by a passion for excellence. He began his journey at the University of Illinois at Chicago College of Dentistry, where he earned several accolades, including the International Congress of Oral Implantologists’ Pre-doctoral Student Achievement Award. His education continued with UIC’s Advanced Predoctoral Implant Program, and he was inducted into the prestigious Omicron Kappa Upsilon National Dental Honor Society.

Dr. Hojun Song

Dr. Hojun Song

Dr. Hojun Song enjoys all aspects of general dentistry, with a special focus on preventive care and patient education. He believes that helping patients understand their oral health is one of the most important parts of building long-term trust and confidence. Before joining the Peakview Dentistry team, Dr. Song served as a Managing Clinical Director at Aspen Dental in Maine. He gained valuable experience in both patient care and clinical leadership.

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Tragedy

Rated 5 out of 5
October 14, 2026
Great People at Peakview i advise people to go there. They are good at what they do.

Ken Harp

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October 6, 2026
Great appointment!

Jessica Pollard

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October 5, 2026
I have intense anxiety around dental pain, and every person I interacted with was incredibly patient and accommodating. I had the option for nitrous oxide, but ended up not needing it. They’re not even in my dental insurance network, but they’re so worth it.

Donna Romberg

Rated 5 out of 5
September 30, 2026
My visit was very positive today. I appreciate so much that the dentist really cared about what I wanted instead of just disregarding me and my needs. I have never had a dentist care for my dental needs like that before. I appreciate you guys so much

Mary Stark

Rated 5 out of 5
September 25, 2026
Been to plenty of dental offices with bad outcomes. I am so glad I was able to be seen by Dr K and he made me feel so comfortable and was able to get over my fear of dental places. Dr K was able to restore my upper teeth and will return to do my lower implants.One of the best dental offices. Dr K and all the staff all treat you with kindness and compassion.

Richard Rokos

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September 24, 2026
As always the best treatment and service!Thank you for your care!

Connor Emerson

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September 22, 2026
Everyone on the team is INCREDIBLE! They have been so patient with me especially those times I have not been the easiest patient to deal with. They would just take it on the chin and do whatever the my could to put me at ease. My teeth look AMAZING and I’m super excited for the final results. Dr. K is amazing at what he does and anytime I felt something was off with my bite or whatever it may be they fit me in right away. I really appreciate everyone who works here and am so grateful that I found them.

Steve DeHerrera

Rated 5 out of 5
September 21, 2026
Great, I always have a good experience

Don't Let Root Canals Ruin Your Smile

We work with you to find solutions to your dental concerns while tailoring our treatments to your schedule. We’re here to set out a calm and relaxing setting for your appointments and treatments. and we’ll aid you determine the oral issues you are fit for and focus on your personal needs.

Don't Let Root Canals Ruin Your Smile

We work with you to find solutions to your dental concerns while tailoring our treatments to your schedule. We’re here to set out a calm and relaxing setting for your appointments and treatments. and we’ll aid you determine the oral issues you are fit for and focus on your personal needs.
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