Abstract:

In this article, different methods to deal with teeth fractures were discussed by presenting a case of traumatic crown-root fracture in the anterior esthetic zone. The traumatic crown-root fracture is a common problem in clinic. When a fracture line locates in close proximity to or below the alveolar bone crest, the fracture most likely involve the junctional epithelium and the connective tissue attachment. This type of fracture becomes a challenge for restorative dentists because it involves biologic, functional, and esthetic considerations, especially when the fracture occurs in an esthetic area. In this case, a young patient presented with two fractured upper anterior teeth to the Department of Periodontics, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology. After the comprehensive clinical evaluation, the right central incisor was decided to extract for implant therapy and the right lateral incisor was decided to retain by one modified crown lengthening surgery. The most common technique applied to save a retained root is a clinical crown lengthening procedure. However, the aggressive alveolar bone resection of both target and adjacent teeth to reestablish the bone width and periodontal health may compromise functional and esthetic outcomes. To reduce loss of excessive osseous tissue during osteotomy procedure, the modified crown lengthening of the right lateral incisor was performed, including minor bone resection and root reshaping. Regarding the right central incisor, the retained root was all located below the alveolar bone crest. The extraction and implant procedure, combined with guided bone graft were performed to avoid the damage to neighbor teeth during traditional restorative therapy and to reshape a preferable buccal contour. At the last visit, the patient was recalled with healthy periodontium, normal tooth function and favorable esthetic results.

Key words: Tooth fractures, Crown lengthening, Dental implantation, Esthetics, dental