RESUMO
AIM: To demonstrate the maintenance of pulp health in a tooth with a fractured root without any complications or endodontic treatment and the advantage of cone bean computed tomography (CBCT) compared with traditional radiographs in the diagnosis of root fractures. SUMMARY: The horizontal fracture of a maxillary central incisor is described that was an incidental finding on a routine radiographic examination 17 years after trauma. The tooth was asymptomatic. Intra-oral radiography revealed a complicated multiple root fracture with separation of the root fragments, which was not confirmed by CBCT. This case report illustrates spontaneous healing of root fracture and the reparative potential in the area of root fracture including preservation of pulp health and also demonstrates that CBCT is a more reliable imaging technique than conventional radiographs regarding root fracture diagnosis. KEY LEARNING POINTS: The dental pulp is characterized by the ability to heal spontaneously in cases of root fracture. CBCT has advantages in diagnosing root fractures over intra-oral radiographs. CBCT should be employed with caution due to its increased radiation dose compared with periapical radiography.