Periodontal signs and symptoms associated with vertical root fracture

This report describes the clinical presentation of three cases of vertical root fractures in adult patients where an initial diagnosis of localized periodontitis had been considered. Loss of the affected tooth occurred in all of these patients. The effects of endodontic therapy and the provision of post-retained restorations are considered in relation to their potential effect of weakening the root and predisposing the tooth to vertical fracture. The last case presents an unrestored molar tooth with a complete vertical root fracture.