In the era of modern dentistry, we are seeing ageing patients retaining a heavily restored dentition for longer. Bruxism is a common outcome due to the ever-increasing stresses of a fast-paced life. These and many other factors result in cracks forming within teeth.

The general dental practitioner is often required to diagnose, restore and maintain a tooth or teeth that have been cracked.

This one-day multidisciplinary lecture will discuss the diagnosis and management of this often complex clinical situation as well as outcomes that can be expected and how to best inform patients.

The lecture will be a case-based discussion delivering information relevant to treatment planning and restoration of these teeth that is immediately translatable to a general dental clinical setting.

Etiology and types of cracks

Diagnosis:

• History taking
• Clinical signs and symptoms of cracks
• Clinical Examination
• Radiographic examination and findings including 3D imaging
• Use of illumination and magnification

Endodontic considerations

• The response of the pulp to cracks
• Bacterial ingress and crack propagation
• Minimal access and conservation of tooth structure

Restorative considerations

• Modern restorative philosophies for restoring cracked teeth
• Restorative techniques and trouble shooting.

Prognosis/Outcomes

Learning Objectives

• Become confident in the diagnosis of cracks
• Pain management and symptomatic relief
• Restorative plans for cracked teeth
• When is endodontic treatment required.
• What outcomes can be expected and what to tell your patient.