Also known as: hairline tooth crack, fractured tooth, split tooth, cracked enamel, pain when biting on one tooth, tooth pain when releasing pressure

A cracked tooth in children can cause anything from brief discomfort when biting to sharper pain that returns over and over in the same spot. Symptoms are often most noticeable when chewing, releasing pressure after biting, or eating something cold or sweet. In some cases, the crack is easy to see, but many small cracks are difficult to spot at home even when the tooth already feels sensitive or painful.

This symptom usually means the tooth structure has been weakened by injury, pressure, decay, or wear. Even a small crack can deepen over time if the tooth keeps taking stress during normal chewing. Left untreated, a cracked tooth may become more painful, break further, or allow irritation to reach the inner nerve of the tooth. Early evaluation helps determine how extensive the crack is and which treatment can protect the tooth as comfortably and conservatively as possible.

Possible Causes of Cracked Tooth

A cracked tooth is commonly associated with:

  • Dental injury or sudden bite trauma – A fall, hit to the mouth, or biting down on something hard can create a crack in the tooth, even if the damage is small at first.

  • Teeth grinding or clenching – Repeated pressure from grinding, especially at night, can weaken the tooth over time and lead to fine cracks or worsening fractures.

  • Large cavity or weakened tooth structure – Teeth that are already weakened by decay, thin enamel, or previous breakdown are more likely to crack under everyday chewing forces.

  • Old fillings or structural wear – A tooth with existing wear or a large restored area may not handle pressure as well, making it easier for a crack to form or spread.

  • Sudden temperature or pressure stress – Rapid changes in stress on a vulnerable tooth can worsen a small fracture and make the crack more noticeable during biting or chewing.

Treatments for Cracked Tooth

Depending on the severity and location of the crack, treatment may include:

  • Fillings – For a small crack or chipped area, a filling may be used to rebuild the damaged portion of the tooth, smooth rough edges, and protect more sensitive inner tooth structure.
  • Crowns – A crown can cover and strengthen a cracked tooth that needs more complete protection, helping prevent the fracture from spreading with normal chewing and biting.
  • Baby Root Canals (Pulpotomy, aka Pulp Therapy) – If the crack has irritated or exposed the inner nerve tissue, pulp therapy may be needed to remove the damaged tissue and keep the baby tooth comfortable and functional.
  • Emergency Dentistry – When a cracked tooth follows an injury or causes sudden pain, emergency dental care can help relieve discomfort quickly and determine the safest next step for treatment.

When to See a Dentist

Consider scheduling an appointment if your child:

  • Complains of pain when biting down or releasing pressure
  • Has a tooth that looks chipped, cracked, or rough along the edge
  • Develops new sensitivity to cold, sweets, or chewing on one side
  • Has pain after a fall, hit to the mouth, or biting something hard
  • Shows swelling, worsening pain, or trouble eating comfortably

Related Symptoms

Concerned About Cracked Tooth?

Cracked tooth is often a sign that something needs attention. We’d love to evaluate your child’s symptoms and make their visit comfortable, positive, and stress-free. Schedule an appointment today and get the answers you need.