Horizontal root fracture in a maxillary central incisor: a case report

Horizontal root fractures usually are characterized by a fracture line that is perpendicular to the long axis of the tooth's root. Root fractures are diagnosed through clinical and radiographic examination. Treatment depends on the position of the fracture and the extent of root involvement. Successful treatment depends on correct diagnosis, clinical management, and radiographic follow-up. This article describes the successful treatment (with a 3-year follow-up period) of a permanent maxillary central incisor with horizontal root fracture treated with calcium hydroxide, in which the coronal segment was necrotic and the apical segment remained vital.