By the Berala Dental clinical team. Educational information only — this article is general information and is not a substitute for personalised dental advice. Please book a consultation to discuss your individual needs.
Cracked tooth syndrome is when a small crack in a tooth causes sharp, often fleeting pain — typically when biting down or releasing — and it can be tricky to diagnose because the crack is often too fine to see. Common signs include pain on biting that disappears quickly and sensitivity that's hard to pinpoint. Here's how to recognise it and why getting it checked early matters.
If that sharp twinge on biting sounds familiar, we can take a look at it.
Call (02) 9649 6468 · Book online · WhatsApp
Common signs of a cracked tooth
- A sharp pain when biting that disappears quickly afterwards
- Pain when you release a bite, not just when you press down
- Sensitivity to hot, cold or sweet that's hard to locate
- Discomfort that comes and goes rather than a constant ache
- Pain only with certain foods or at a particular angle
What causes teeth to crack?
- Grinding or clenching (bruxism)
- Biting something hard, like ice, nuts or a popcorn kernel
- Large or old fillings that weaken the remaining tooth
- Sudden temperature changes in the mouth
- General wear and tear over time
Why cracks are so tricky to diagnose
Some cracks are very fine and don't show up easily, even on an x-ray. Diagnosis usually involves an examination and a few simple tests — such as biting on a special tool — to work out which tooth is involved and how deep the crack goes. Because symptoms come and go, it helps to note when the pain happens so we can pin it down faster.
Why it's worth acting early
Left alone, a crack can sometimes deepen over time, which may turn a small problem into a bigger one. Getting it assessed early gives you more options and a better chance of keeping the tooth comfortable and functional.
Noticed it in one particular tooth? Bring it in and we'll work out which one it is.
Call (02) 9649 6468 · Book online · WhatsApp
What can be done about it
The right approach depends entirely on where the crack is and how far it extends — something we can only determine by examining the tooth. After an assessment, we'll talk you through the options for your specific situation and, if a specialist's input is the best path, help arrange a referral.
What about cost?
We publish ranges rather than one fixed price. A cracked tooth can need anything from a composite filling ($250–450) to a crown ($1,500–1,800), and sometimes root canal treatment ($1,600–2,200) before a crown goes on. A quote given before the tooth is examined can be wrong in either direction — someone braced for a root canal can turn out to need a filling, and the reverse happens too. Every patient is unique, and that is exactly why a range is more honest than silence. You will always be given an itemised written quote before treatment starts. Every figure above assumes your health fund contributes nothing; your fund may contribute depending on your policy, and the quote can be run against your specific cover. If you would like the full price list, email [email protected] with the subject “Price list request”. More on our fees page.
Frequently asked questions
Can a cracked tooth heal on its own?
No — unlike a bone, a cracked tooth doesn't heal itself. The symptoms may come and go, but the crack remains, which is why it's best to have it assessed.
How do dentists find a crack that doesn't show on an x-ray?
We use an examination plus simple tests, such as biting on a special device, along with your description of when the pain happens, to locate the crack.
Is a cracked tooth an emergency?
Not always, but sudden severe pain, swelling or a broken tooth should be seen promptly — see our emergency page. Milder, intermittent symptoms still warrant a check before they worsen.
Will I lose the tooth?
Often no, especially when caught early. The outlook depends on how deep the crack is, which is exactly what an assessment determines.
Get a sharp twinge when biting? Have it checked
Happy to assess the tooth and talk you through what your options actually are.
Call (02) 9649 6468 · Book online · WhatsApp
We review this article periodically so the information stays current for 2026.
BeralaDental