Cracked tooth syndrome (CTS) is a common occurrence in modern general practice. This article reviews the forces placed on the human dentition and the effect restorative dentistry has on the strength of tooth structure. The study reports on the incidence of CTS in a general practice, finding a far higher incidence in teeth which have had the marginal ridge restored than those which have not. The various types of treatment modalities advocated and their relative merits are discussed.