Incidence of Cracked Teeth Before, During, and After the Covid-19 Pandemic-A Retrospective Analysis in a German Private General Practice.

Abstract

Objectives: The Covid-19 pandemic increased stress, which may have led to more bruxism, TMDs, and thus tooth fractures. While previous studies, primarily from specialized clinics, reported an increase in cracked teeth during the pandemic, this retrospective study aimed to assess whether similar trends were observed in a general dental practice in Bavaria, Germany, which remained fully operational throughout the pandemic.

Material and methods: Patient records from 2018 to 2023 (n = 4709 patients, 10,018 visits) were analyzed for symptomatic tooth fractures, categorized as wall/cusp fractures, incomplete cracks, or complete fractures.

Results: Statistical analysis using the Mann-Whitney U test revealed no significant differences in fracture incidence between pre-pandemic (2018-2019), pandemic (2020-2021), and post-pandemic (2022-2023) periods. Mandibular molars were the most frequently affected teeth (7.94%-12.43%), and composite restorations were most associated with fractures (51.85%).

Conclusions: Contrary to previous findings from endodontic practices, this study found no pandemic-related surge in tooth fractures, suggesting that referral bias or patient selection in specialized settings may influence reported trends.