Cracked Tooth Syndrome: An Endodontic Triumph

A cracked tooth is one where a partial or complete fracture exists within the stress plane. Such fractures are more prevalent in patients over 40 years of age, with an incidence rate of 9.7% for cracks or incomplete tooth fractures with vital pulps. The average biting force in humans ranges from 45.7 kg/mm² in males to 36.4 kg/mm² in females, with the force ratio between molars, premolars, and incisors being 4:2:1, respectively. Occlusal forces commonly impose stress on a tooth, potentially causing higher energy instances within the stress plane during the mastication cycle. The functional prognosis and periodontal treatment requirements for a cracked or incompletely fractured tooth depend on the location and the extent of tooth structure intersected, along with its involvement in the stress plane. This case report highlights the diagnosis and management of a cracked maxillary first molar and identifies prognostic indicators, which largely depend on the extent of the fracture within the tooth structure. Keywords: Crack tooth, Orthodontic banding, CBCT, Longitudinal fractures, Endodontic treatment