Exploration of Diagnosis, Etiology, and Prognosis Prediction of Cracked Teeth in Young Adults

Cracked teeth are a common dental problem where tiny cracks form in the teeth. These cracks can be hard to find early, and if not treated, they may cause the tooth to break. This study aims to see if a new, non-invasive imaging method called Near-Infrared Imaging (NIRI) can help us find these cracks better in young adults aged 18 to 30 years. Participants will attend a single dental visit where they will receive a standard dental examination, including checks for pain when biting or when the tooth is tapped or exposed to cold. Additionally, pictures of their teeth will be taken using a special NIRI camera that uses a safe, painless light, and their teeth will be examined closely using a dental operating microscope, which is the current standard method for comparison. The main goals are to evaluate how accurate the NIRI method is compared to the microscope, to determine if NIRI can serve as a reliable alternative or helpful supplement for dentists, and to identify patterns and factors such as tooth position, wear, and bite that may be linked to cracked teeth, helping dentists recognize patients at higher risk. The study enrolled participants from September 2025 to March 2026 at the School and Hospital of Stomatology, Fujian Medical University.