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Cracked tooth syndrome — NDEB AFK MCQ

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ModerateRestorativeCracked tooth syndromeNDEB AFK

A 41-year-old reports sharp pain on release when biting on a cotton roll on tooth 4.6. Cold testing is brief and non-lingering, the tooth has a large MOD restoration, and the periapical radiograph is normal. What is the most appropriate investigation?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: B — Bite test with crack assessment and periodontal probing

Pain on release with a heavily restored posterior tooth and normal radiograph suggests cracked tooth syndrome, so bite testing, crack assessment, transillumination, and probing are appropriate. Salivary culture and cephalometric imaging do not investigate the suspected tooth crack. The pearl is that defining crack depth and pulpal status determines whether cuspal coverage, endodontic treatment, or extraction is needed.

Reference: Restorative dentistry reference texts; NDEB KSAs 2024