Cracked teeth: What clinicians and specialists need to know

Kênia Maria Pereira de TOUBES, Stéphanie Quadros TONELLI, Eduardo NUNES, Frank Ferreira SILVEIRA

The purpose of this literature review is to examine the existing evidence regarding etiology, signs, symptoms, methods of diagnosis, and treatment of cracked teeth. According to the American Association of Endodontists (AAE), the term cracked tooth (CT) is defined as “a fracture in a plane that breaks the continuity of the enamel and dentin, without separation of the parts, usually in the mesiodistal direction, passing through the surface occlusal, which may involve one or both of the marginal ridges.” Due to its unknown depth and direction, this fracture can extend to the pulp and periodontal ligament, leading to reversible pulpitis, irreversible pulpitis, pulp necrosis, or even progress to a complete fracture. Currently, cracked teeth are related to the third largest cause of missing teeth, after caries and periodontal disease. Studies indicate a lack of consensus among professionals about treating cracked teeth, a clinically relevant issue that needs to be prioritized and clarified. In this context, this review addressed the etiology, signs and symptoms, diagnostic methods, and treatment of cracked teeth.

Keywords: Cracked teeth. Dental restoration. Full-coverage crown. Intracanal post. Onlay.

How to cite: de Toubes KMP, Tonelli SQ, Nunes E, Silveira FF. Cracked teeth: What clinicians and specialists need to know. Dental Press Endod. 2021 Sept-Dec;11(3):14-23.

Friday, November 22, 2024 23:05