Understanding Cracked Tooth Syndrome and the Dental Occlusion Triad – PS019

You’re doing a routine exam when you spot it – a stained hairline crack snaking across the marginal ridge of a molar. Your patient hasn’t mentioned any symptoms… Yet.

Should you sound the alarm? Monitor and wait? Jump straight to treatment?

Cracked teeth are one of dentistry’s most misunderstood diagnoses. Colleagues debate whether to crown or monitor. And that crack you’re staring at? It could stay dormant for years—or spiral into an extraction by next month.

So what separates the teeth that crack catastrophically from those that quietly hold together?

In this episode, I am joined by final-year dental student Emma to crack the code (pun intended) on cracked tooth syndrome. 

We break down the easy-to-remember “position, force, time” framework to help you spot risk factors before disaster strikes, and share a real-world case of a 19-year-old bruxist whose molar was saved by smart occlusal thinking.

If you’ve ever felt uncertain about diagnosing, explaining, or managing cracked teeth, this episode will change how you think about every suspicious line you see.

Need to Read it? Check out the Full Episode Transcript below!

Key Takeaways

• Risk factors include large restorations and bruxism.
• Occlusion plays a significant role in tooth health.
• Diet can impact the integrity of teeth.
• Every patient presents unique challenges in treatment.
• Communication about dental issues is key for patient care.
• Certain teeth are more prone to fractures due to their anatomy.
• The weakest link theory explains why some patients experience more dental issues.
• Patient history is crucial in predicting future dental problems.
• The age and dental history of a patient influence treatment decisions.
• Understanding occlusion is essential for diagnosing and treating cracked teeth.
• The location of a tooth affects the force it experiences during chewing.
• Bruxism increases the risk of tooth fractures.
• Tooth contacts and forces play a critical role in diagnosing issues.
• Opposing teeth can provide valuable insights into tooth health.
• Effective communication is essential in managing cracked teeth.
• Stains on teeth can indicate deeper issues with cracks.
• Monitoring and documenting cracks over time is crucial for patient care.

Highlights of this episode:

Check out the AAE cracked teeth and root fracture guide for excellent visuals and classification details.

Literature review on cracked teeth – examines evidence around risk factors, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of cracked teeth.

Want to learn more about cracked teeth? Have a listen to PDP028 and PDP098 – both packed with practical tips and case-based insights.

#BreadAndButterDentistry #PDPMainEpisodes #OcclusionTMDandSplints

This episode is eligible for 0.75 CE credits via the quiz on Protrusive Guidance. 

This episode contributes to the following GDC development outcomes:

• Outcome C  

AGD Subject Code: 250 – Operative (Restorative) Dentistry

Aim: To help dental professionals understand the causes, diagnosis, and management of cracked teeth through a practical, evidence-based approach. It focuses on identifying risk factors using the Position–Force–Time framework and improving patient outcomes through informed communication and tailored treatment planning.

Dentists will be able to:

1. Explain the aetiology and progression of cracked tooth syndrome
2. Identify high-risk teeth and patient factors—such as restoration design, occlusal contacts, and parafunctional habits—that predispose to cracks
3. Communicate effectively with patients about the significance of cracks, prognosis, and monitoring options, improving patient understanding and consent.