Management of cracked teeth

Cracked tooth is a distinct type of longitudinal fracture which may extend through one or both of the marginal ridges (through the proximal surface). It is caused by occlusal forces, either large forces on a normal tooth or normal force on a weakened tooth. Cracked tooth by itself is not a diagnosis, but is a clinical finding. A cracked tooth can act as a pathway for ingress of bacteria causing pulpal and/or periapical inflammation or disease. Early diagnosis followed by proper treatment planning and periodic follow up evaluation is the goal standard protocols in treating cracks.