Expert Cracked Teeth Treatment in SeaTac, WA
A cracked tooth can cause sharp pain when you bite, sensitivity to hot or cold, or discomfort that is hard to pin down. Because a crack does not heal on its own, early evaluation matters. Finding out how deep the crack goes is the first step toward keeping the tooth.
Burien Endodontics serves patients throughout SeaTac, and Dr. Matthew Tomala evaluates and treats cracked teeth with a focus on preserving natural teeth. He has 15 years of endodontic experience and teaches at the University of Washington as an affiliate assistant faculty member. Our general cracked teeth page gives a broader overview of how we approach these cases.
What Causes a Tooth to Crack
Cracks develop for several reasons. Large fillings can leave less natural tooth structure to absorb bite pressure. Grinding or clenching puts steady force on teeth, and biting down on something hard can cause a sudden fracture. Injuries from sports or falls are another common cause, and teeth can also weaken over time.
Types of Cracks and Why They Matter
The type of crack affects the treatment. According to the American Association of Endodontists, the sooner a cracked tooth is treated, the better the outcome, and a split tooth often cannot be saved intact. Our team looks at how far the crack extends and whether it has reached the pulp.
- Fine surface lines that may not need treatment
- A crack that extends from the chewing surface toward the root
- A split tooth, where the crack divides the tooth into segments
A vertical crack that reaches below the gum line is harder to treat, which is why a careful diagnosis comes first.
Expert Endodontic Care When You Need It Most
Specialized root canal therapy and endodontic treatment delivered with precision and compassion.
- Board-certified endodontists with advanced training
- Advanced microscopic techniques for optimal outcomes
- Same-day emergency appointments available
- Pain-free procedures with modern anesthesia options
Symptoms to Watch For
Cracked teeth can be difficult to spot. Pain that appears when you release a bite, sensitivity that comes and goes, and pain with temperature changes are common clues. Swelling or a bump on the gum near the tooth may signal infection.
If you notice these signs, please do not wait for the pain to become severe. For urgent symptoms, our emergency endodontic care in SeaTac page explains how we help patients quickly.
How We Diagnose a Crack
Diagnosis starts with a localized exam and your description of the pain. We take diagnostic images and a CBCT scan, which shows the tooth and surrounding bone in three dimensions. Cracks can be hard to see on standard images, so this information helps us decide whether the tooth can be restored.
Our technology page describes the equipment we use, and your records stay 100% digital. We then discuss treatment options with you, including the likely outcomes and limits of each.
Treatment Options
If the crack has reached the pulp, non-surgical root canal therapy can remove the infected or inflamed tissue and relieve pain. Your general dentist then places a crown or other restoration to protect the tooth. Some cracks may continue to progress even after treatment, and we explain that possibility before you decide.
Where appropriate, laser technology supports disinfection, pain management, healing, and a reduction in inflammation. If a tooth cannot be saved, we explain why and work with your general dentist on next steps. Our SeaTac endodontist page lists the other services we offer to local patients.
What to Do Before Your Appointment
Avoid chewing on the affected side and keep the area clean with gentle rinses of warm salt water. Use over-the-counter pain medicine as the label directs. If you can, bring any piece of tooth that broke off.
Go to the nearest emergency room if swelling affects your breathing or swallowing, or if you have a head injury. Otherwise, call us so we can arrange an evaluation.
Insurance and Payment
Our front office checks your benefits and files claims for you. Real-time claim processing shows your estimated insurance portion, and only that portion is due at the time of service. If needed, we discuss financing options before treatment, and you can review accepted insurance plans in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cracked Teeth in SeaTac
No. Unlike bone, a cracked tooth does not repair itself, and a crack may worsen without treatment.
Schedule a Cracked Tooth Evaluation Near SeaTac
Dr. Tomala earned a Doctorate of Dental Surgery from the University of Michigan School of Dentistry, completed an Air Force general dentistry residency, and earned a Master of Science in Dentistry through his endodontic training at the University of Washington. He is a member of the American Association of Endodontists, the Washington State Association of Endodontics, the American Dental Association, and the King County Dental Society.
Our office is at 118 SW 160th Street in Burien, open Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM. Call (206) 402-5147 or use our contact form to schedule.
