Definition: A vertical root fracture is a fracture through the root in a vertical direction (just like the name).
Radiographic Features:
Location: This can occur with any tooth. Most commonly occurs through the root canal space creating an enlarged root canal space.
Edge: Well-defined.
Shape: Linear.
Internal: Radiolucent.
Other: There may or may not be separation of the two root segments.
Number: This may be single or multiple.
(click image to enlarge)
Vertical root fracture
(maxillary right lateral incisor (#7) with separation of two root segments)
(left – with arrow) (right – without arrow)
Vertical root fracture
(maxillary left second premolar (#13) with separation of two root segments)
Vertical root fracture
(mesial root of mandibular right first molar (#30) note the separation of two segments and increased width of root canal space)
