Rapid orthodontic extrusion of a subgingivally fractured incisor.

Figure 2. Extrusion after 1 week. A subgingivally fractured incisor presents a restorative challenge. Orthodontic eruption is a good alternative to crown lengthening for restoring the biological width, maintaining the alveolar bone, and restoring esthetics. The technique requires a hook to serve as the attachment system, fixed to the fractured tooth root, and an anchorage bar to allow movement of the root. The bar should not interfere with the occlusion, should be directly above the hook, and should ensure stabilization of the anchored teeth. The elastic provides the force. The forces must be vertically directed along the long axis of the tooth. With sufficient force, the periodontal fibers are ruptured. Therefore, tooth movement is rapid, and there is no movement of the periodontal tissues. The eruption described required 1 week.