Restoring Anterior Residual Roots Via Crown Lengthening And Post-Core

This case report presents a restoration plan that involves removing root canal fiber posts from multiple residual roots of anterior teeth, followed by crown lengthening surgery to increase the available teeth structure for retention. Finally, fine-tuning the tooth axis with metal posts to enhance the aesthetic effect. In this case, the three anterior teeth of the patient have only residual roots remaining, which are inclined towards the labial side. Given the patient's high aesthetic expectations, attaining a good restoration effect poses significant challenges. The restoration of residual roots in anterior teeth requires consideration of comprehensive factors, such as the remaining teeth volumes, the condition of roots, and aesthetics. In this case, there are several challenging aspects, including small remaining teeth volumes, labial inclination, residual fiber posts in the root canal, and severe gingival recession. By performing crown lengthening surgery to increase retention and by fine-tuning the teeth axis with metal posts, better restoration results were achieved. In this case, the primary clinical dilemma centered on teeth preservation versus extraction. While implant-supported prostheses offer simultaneous crown restoration and axial correction, this approach carries drawbacks including invasive extraction, elevated aesthetic risks, prolonged treatment duration, and significant financial burden. Therefore, aligned with the patient's preference, a conservative restoration plan combining crown lengthening and metal post-core restoration was implemented to achieve a shorter treatment course, rapid improvement of aesthetic effect, and relatively lower cost.