Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 13, 2026
Less-Invasive Technique for Non-stabilized Mandibular Fracture in Mouse Models
Published on: September 27, 2024
Managing incomplete tooth fractures
1Department of Oral Health Care Delivery, Dental School, University of Maryland, Baltimore 21201-1586, USA. jea001@dental
Background:
The author presents an evidence-based protocol for the diagnosis and treatment of incomplete tooth fractures. It is designed to help dentists recognize fractures, distinguish between restorable and nonrestorable fractures, and follow a rational approach to treatment.
Overview:
An incomplete tooth fracture is a frequently encountered problem that dentists need to assess carefully to arrive at the correct treatment decision. The author presents a review of representative literature corroborating the assertions made in the evidence-based protocol. Treatment approaches are presented for each of two major fracture types.
Clinical Implications:
Dentists need to be aware of the classic symptoms of incomplete tooth fracture, the methods used in formulating a differential diagnosis, criteria for determining pulpal status and restorability, iatrogenic factors involved in the etiology of incomplete fracture, and the consequences of inadequate diagnosis or treatment.
Related Concept Videos
01:27Fractures: Bone Repair
Minor fractures with no bone displacement are treated by immobilizing the fractured bone using a cast or splint. However, in the case of fractures with displaced bones, the broken bones are repositioned before immobilization to ensure successful healing without deformation and loss of function. The realignment of fractured bone ends is performed through a process called reduction. If the procedure...
01:15Teeth
In the bud stage, the tooth germ (an aggregation of cells) starts to form in the developing jawbone. During the cap stage, the tooth germ differentiates into enamel organ, dental papilla, and dental sac, which will later develop into the tooth's enamel, dentin and...
01:21Tooth Anatomy
The Crown, Neck, and Root
The visible part of the tooth is referred to as the crown. It's covered by enamel, the hardest substance in the human body. The crown is uniquely shaped for each type of tooth, allowing for different functions such as cutting, tearing, or grinding food.