Combined technique with polyethylene fibers and composite resins in restoration of traumatized anterior teeth.

Traumatized anterior teeth need quick esthetic and functional repair. Esthetic requirements of anterior teeth require the use of composite materials which, in the most complex cases, can be used in association with fibers so as to improve their mechanical resistance. Many kinds of fibers are available. The authors considered parameters such as physical properties, water absorption, ease of cutting and of laying. Polyethylene fibers appear to have the best properties in elasticity, translucency, adaptability, tenaciousness, resistance to traction and to impact. Fifteen children, between 7 and 13 years old, with crown fractures of the anterior sector were treated. In the case of a simple crown fracture, the missing part was restored by polyethylene fibers and composite resins. In the case of a complex crown fracture needing endodontic treatment, the fibers were used as a central core stump in order to restore the dental morphology. At control examinations, the teeth restored by this technique were acceptable, both in function and in aesthetics. Thus, the authors recommend this combined technique for predictable restoration of traumatized anterior teeth. Copyright Blackwell Munksgaard, 2004