Crown and Root Fractures

Crown fractures are the most common injury to the permanent dentition and may present in several different ways. The simplest form is crown infraction. This is a crazing of enamel without loss of tooth structure. It should not require treatment except adequate testing of pulpal vitality.¹⁴ Fractures extending into the dentin are usually sensitive to temperature and other stimuli. The most severe crown fracture results in the pulp being fully exposed and contaminated in a closed apex tooth or a horizontal impact may result in a root fracture. The chief clinical sign of root fracture is mobility. Radiographic evaluation and examination of adjacent teeth must be performed to determine the location and severity of the fracture as well as the possibility of associated alveolar fracture.¹² Treatment is determined by the level of injury. Again, consult the latest AAPD clinical recommendations for this type of injury.

Figure 5. Tooth Fracture.

Figure 5. Tooth Fracture.