Treatment and prognosis of a vertically fractured maxillary molar with widely separated segments: a case report

This is a report of the treatment and prognosis of a maxillary second molar exhibiting a complete vertical crown-root fracture. The buccal and palatal segments were widely separated by as much as 2 mm and were immobile. To restore this tooth, it was essential to bring the segments into close apposition. This was accomplished by application of orthodontic elastics to the tooth crown in combination with a wire splint. After approximately 1 month of continuous use of the orthodontic elastics, the dislodged segments were suitably repositioned close to their original positions. The tooth was then endodontically treated and restored with a cast complete crown. The restored tooth has been functioning well, with periodic periodontal maintenance, for more than 3.5 years, indicating a promising prognosis.