Early Detection Is Key to Preserving Tooth Structure

Understanding the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of dental cracks and fractures can help clinicians improve outcomes and enhance patients’ long-term oral health.

AGD Subject Code: 070

Educational ­Objectives

After reading this course, the participant should be able to:

1. Differentiate between craze lines, cracked teeth, fractured cusps, split teeth, and vertical root fractures based on their clinical and radiographic characteristics.
2. Identify effective diagnostic tools and techniques to accurately detect and assess the extent of cracks and fractures.
3. Discuss evidence-based treatment plans tailored to the severity and prognosis of cracks and fractures, while educating patients on prevention and long-term maintenance strategies.

This course was published in the January/February 2025 issue and expires February 2028. The authors have no commercial conflicts of interest to disclose. This 2 credit hour self-study activity is electronically mediated.