Strengthening and restoration of immature teeth with an acid-etch resin technique

Abstract Endodontic treatment with subsequent restoration of 3 immature incisors with horizontal fractures in the cervical region is described. In 1 tooth the fracture occurred supragingivally, whereas in 2 others the fracture was such that the root margins were between 1 and 2 mm subosseous. In these teeth proper access to the roots was established by means of orthodontic extrusion and/or periodontal surgery. After endodontic treatment, the gutta-percha was removed from the root canals to a level 2 to 3 mm apically to the osseous crest. The root canal dentin was acid-etched and a post to retain a crown was cemented into the canal with a composite resin. The resin will then penetrate into the dentinal tubules of the root canal walls and strengthen the root to such a degree that it becomes restorable. Semipermanent composite resin crowns and, in one instance, a more permanent porcelain crown were used to restore the teeth.