Anterior Restorations in Pediatric Dentistry: A Review of Literature on Rationale, Materials and Full-Coverage Crowns

AbstractAnterior restorative treatment in pediatric dentistry presents a distinctive combination of biological, functional, esthetic and psychosocial considerations. Anterior teeth may be affected by early childhood caries, traumatic injuries, developmental defects, discoloration and structural abnormalities, and their preservation is important for mastication, phonetics, arch integrity and appearance. The transition from primary to permanent dentition further complicates material selection because primary and newly erupted permanent teeth differ in morphology, pulp anatomy, enamel characteristics, occlusal environment and expected service period. Advances in adhesive dentistry and restorative material science have markedly expanded the available treatment options. Glass ionomer cements (GICs), resin-modified glass ionomers, resin-based composites, compomers, giomers and reinforced or bioactive formulations offer different combinations of adhesion, fluoride release, esthetics, strength and handling. At the same time, full-coverage options for severely damaged anterior primary teeth have evolved from conventional stainless steel and polycarbonate crowns to composite strip crowns, pre-veneered stainless steel crowns, zirconia crowns and newer polymer-based and digitally fabricated systems. This review discusses the rationale for anterior restoration, the composition, properties and evolution of major restorative materials, specific modifications of GICs and resin composites, and the clinical characteristics of full-coverage crowns used in pediatric anterior teeth. Emphasis is placed on material selection according to remaining tooth structure, caries risk, pulpal status, dentition stage, esthetic expectations, occlusion and child cooperation.