DIAGNOSTIC METHODS FOR CRACKED TOOTH: A MINI REVIEW OF LITERATURE

Abstract

The cracked tooth (DF) is a common finding in clinical practice, but their diagnosis is difficult, especially in early stages. For this reason, various diagnostic methods have been developed over the years. This literature review seeks to compile diagnostic methods for DF. Signs and symptoms of DF can be assessed from the history and clinical evaluation during visual inspection, magnification examination, probing, vitality testing, percussion testing, bitewing, staining, transillumination, or exploratory surgery. Ancillary imaging examinations are also valuable tools for the diagnosis of DF; periapical radiography, cone-beam computed tomography, and optical coherence tomography are alternatives. Due to the importance of DF diagnosis, new alternatives have been developed, such as quantitative light-induced fluorescence, near-infrared transillumination, auxiliary diagnosis using orthodontic bands, and quantitative percussion. In conclusion, to improve the detection of DF it is advisable to apply more than one diagnostic method.