A Simplified Method for the Restoration of Severely Decayed Primary Incisors

OBJECTIVES Caries and dental trauma are common reasons for primary anterior teeth restorations in children. This non-control clinical trial was designed to evaluate crown restorations reinforced with a sectioned file post for the restoration of severely damaged primary maxillary incisors. MATERIALS AND METHODS Thirty-eight primary maxillary incisors of 12 children (3-5 years old) with early childhood caries (ECC) received composite restorations with a custom made post. The restorations were evaluated using the modified United State Public Health Service (USPHS) criteria. The results were statistically analyzed by descriptive -analytical tests. RESULTS In this trial, the quality of marginal adaptation decreased after three and 12 months intervals. Recurrent carious lesions were observed during intervals. In terms of restoration retention, only one patient lost both the post and the restoration at the 12-month follow up. CONCLUSION The sectioned file post technique showed good retention and aesthetics for restoring severely damaged primary maxillary anterior teeth.