Cracked Teeth
Cracked teeth demonstrate many types of symptoms, including pain when chewing, temperature sensitivities, or even the release of biting pressure. It is also common for tooth pain to come and go, making it difficult to diagnose the cause of discomfort.
Chewing can cause movement of the cracked pieces of your tooth, and the pulp within the tooth becomes irritated. At the same time, when biting pressure is released, the crack can close quickly, resulting in sharp pain. Eventually, the pulp will become damaged and tooth will consistently hurt, even when you are not chewing. It is possible that cracks can lead to infection of the pulp tissue, which can spread to the bone and gum surrounding the problematic tooth.
Types of Cracks

Craze lines
These are tiny cracks that only affect the outer enamel of the tooth. These cracks are more common in adults. These types of cracks are superficial and are usually of no concern.

Fractured Cusp
When a cusp becomes weakened, a fracture may result. The cusp may break off or be removed by a dentist. A fractured cusp rarely damages the pulp, so root canal is not necessary. Your dentist will usually restore the tooth with a full crown.

Treatable Cracked Tooth
This type of crack extends from the chewing surface of the tooth and vertically migrates towards the root. In some cases, the crack may extend below the gum line. It is possible for the crack to extend further into the root. Damage to the pulp is commonplace. In this case, root canal treatment is usually necessary. A cracked tooth that is not treated will worsen, resulting in the loss of the tooth. Therefore, early detection is essential.

Split Tooth
A split tooth is usually the result of an untreated cracked tooth. It can be identified by a crack with distinct segments. This type of tooth can never be saved intact. Yet, the position and extent of the problem will dictate whether any portion of the tooth can be saved. Sometimes, endodontic retreatment by the doctors and restoration by your dentist can be used to save a portion of the tooth.

Vertical Root Fracture
A vertical root fracture begins at the root and extends towards the chewing surface of the tooth. Unfortunately, they show minimal symptoms and may go unnoticed. Treatment involves endodontic surgery if a portion of the tooth can be saved by removal of the fractured root. Otherwise, the tooth will have to be extracted.
Legacy Endodontics
I appreciate how they explain everything in detail, their communication is wonderful and I love coming here. ️
- Stephanie F
The dental assistant (younger blond lady) was very sweet and understanding. The doctor was absolutely amazing (they both were) They made me feel comfortable the second they walked in. They were walking me through everything and we were cracking jokes. The wait time was very little and my tooth feels amazing now! overall an amazing experience and I would definitely recommend!
- Atreya C
I was very nervous about this procedure but they all made me comfortable and safe. I didn't feel any pain, it was quick and easy. I appreciate them all so much!
- Stephanie F
Everyone was very professional, friendly, and helpful! The x-ray machine and the photos it created were amazing and worth every dollar spent,
- Sam S
The doctor and the staff were great at what they're doing. They are thorough, knowledgeable and showed me the work they had done after the appointment. I would recommend them to others.
- Elizabeth L
This was my first and hopefully only root canal.... I was terrified. The entire office staff was great! Everyone was kind, helpful and I couldn't be more grateful that the experience was pleasant. (or at least as pleasant as a root canal can be.... :)) thank you to all!
- Bonnie B
Dr Hershman was efficient working precisely and root canal was done quickly it's been a little over a month now and all is well I appreciate it his expertise and would recommend him to others.
- Juli A F
Speaking from experience - and this was my third root canal under the care of Dr. Hirschman - I can honestly say that he makes this experience as pain free as possible. I was almost rocked to sleep in the operative chair. If I ever have another root canal on my horizon, I know I will be back to see Dr. Hirschman. It's all about pain free from a caring and professional staff. Legacy Endodontics offers the best care in the industry. Thank you.
- Dori J
This was my first root canal. The dentist and staff made it a relatively painless event.
- Peggy O
Best patient quality care.
- Brenda D
Great care, professional and welcoming environment. I will return if needed.
- Steve R
After going to a Graduate School of Dentist in Aurora to get help on a bone loss issue that made things worse. This office took such great care of me, and got me feeling better. They did not hurt me in any way not even when Dr. Hirschman put the anesthesia to work so fast I was no longer in pain. The procedure went by so fast I was able to fall asleep. Loretta never hesitated to be by my side during the procedure making sure I was well. I even took a nap and when I woke up it was all done. Never felt throbbing or pain at all. If it wasn't for Michelle that got me an appointment right away I would still be suffering from this horrible pain. I just want to thank you guys for been the best team I could have gotten.
- Janet D
Every aspect of the office runs like a well oiled machine. Michelle makes scheduling and checking out a breeze which is refreshing after the nightmare the front desk at my last dentist was and they had 5 people! I was completely distracted from the procedure as watching Dr. Hirschman and Loretta work was fascinating. I don't know if I have ever seen people work so well together. I left in amazement going that was a root canal??? I had some mild discomfort the next day that didn't even require pain reliever. After that it was like nothing ever happened. Thank you!
- Daphne S
I’ve had 2 root canals done by Dr Hirschman, about 12 years apart, and each went really smooth. I would 100% recommend anyone go see Dr Hirschman if they need a root canal!
- Rick L
My visit with this office and Dr. Hirschman was fabulous, especially considering my apprehension about getting a root canal. The office has the latest technology and equipment and is beautifully appointed! Dr. Hirschman explained the entire procedure step-by-step, reassuring me and making sure I was comfortable and relaxed during the entire process! His staff was also professional, kind and thorough! I would return to his office without reservation and therefore highly recommend him!
- Laura V
Start to finish excellent. Dr. Is very thoughtful and explained everything in detail. No pain. Easy double root canal. Perfect experience.
- Rebecca W
I love this place, I felt comfortable right away and taken care of right away! They are amazing, clean friendly environment, with great staff that will take care of you!
- Jessica A
I highly recommend Legacy Endodontics. The staff and Dr. Are very kind, pleasant. Dr. Hirschman is very caring and takes the time to explain everything. I will recommend them to my family and friends.
- Anonymous
Dr. Hirschman saved my tooth which was infected with bone loss. I received an apicoectomy which included a bone graft. The process was quick and painless. I am happy with the outcome, and many thanks to the entire staff at Legacy Endodontics.
- Ted G
I have nothing but positive things to say about Legacy Endodontics. I live in the mountains, so the location of the complex is really convenient. The office is beautiful: clean and welcoming. The entire visit took exactly the amount of time I was told it would, and I felt entirely confident in the work being done during the procedure. I will definitely use Legacy for further special procedures and will recommend them to others.
- Sylvia K