Excessive root dentin removal during endodontic treatment and use of posts are the predominant risk factors for root fractures. Common clinical findings associate with root fractured teeth have been discussed in a previous post (It is ‘Game Over’).
The telling sign of vertical root fracture is isolated probing defect(s) on the straight buccal or lingual aspect of the affected root. Accurate probing may also require administering local anesthesia in the area for patient’s comfort.
Vertical root fractures are therefore detected through careful probing around a tooth but sometimes all you need is air-water syringe and good magnification.
Dr. Mahmoud Ektefaie @ vanendo