Crack Diagnosis and Management: from confusion to confidence through biomimetic principles

Speaker: Amber Aplin

Date: June 12, 2026

Time: 16:30‐17:30

Room: Atrium 1

This session aims to demystify crack management and equip clinicians with the confidence to handle cases they might previously have referred or avoided.

Cracks in teeth remain one of the most poorly taught and misunderstood aspects of clinical dentistry, yet they are increasingly common in an ageing population with heavily restored dentitions. This session will provide evidence-based protocols for crack diagnosis, classification and management using biomimetic principles that deliver predictable, long-lasting outcomes.

Objectives

By the end of this session participants will have been:

1. Provided with clinical confidence in diagnosing and classifying cracks that were previously uncertain or intimidating.
2. Introduced to evidence-based protocols for determining treatment pathways based on crack severity, location and tooth risk factors.
3. Guided on practical techniques for managing cracks conservatively using biomimetic materials and principles which enable long-term predictability.
4. Introduced to communication strategies for discussing crack diagnosis and treatment options with patients in ways that build trust and case acceptance.

Learning outcomes

By the end of this session participants should be able to:

1. Systematically identify and classify cracks using evidence-based diagnostic protocols.
2. Apply clinical risk assessment frameworks to determine which cracked teeth are suitable for direct composite restorations, versus those requiring onlays and overlays.
3. Select appropriate techniques and materials for crack management based on crack classification and tooth risk factors.
4. Explain the biological rationale behind crack management to patients, building case acceptance for conservative treatment approaches.

General Dental Council eCPD outcomes: A, C.