Grey areas in restorative dentistry: part 8. The root-filled tooth: posts and ferrules

When presented with a tooth that has lost a large amount of coronal tissue, the practitioner has to assess whether it should be extracted or whether it is reasonable to retain the tooth and make it a functional and/or aesthetic part of the dental arch. Such a tooth is likely to require endodontic treatment prior to restoration and then extensive treatment to bring it to form and function. A judgement has to be made whether there is sufficient tooth tissue remaining to allow for the ferrule effect, or whether auxiliary means, such as a post, are necessary to retain the restoration. A range of factors must be taken into consideration, but ultimately, the decision will be subjective However, preservation of tooth tissue is essential. CPD/Clinical Relevance: The restoration of severely broken-down teeth requires careful assessment, planning and execution.