[Clinical case retrospective study on fragment reattachment of anterior teeth with sub-gingival & supra-alveolar ridge crown-root fractures in esthetic zone]

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the clinical process of fragment reattachment in crown-root fractures (CRF) of teeth that the fracture occurred between sub-gingival and supra-alveolar ridge (sub-gingival & supra-alveolar ridge) in the esthetic zone, and to analyze the feasibility of this minimally invasive technique for sub-gingival & supra-alveolar ridge CRF involving anterior teeth. Methods: Fourteen sub-gingival & supra-alveolar ridge CRF involving anterior teeth in 12 patients received fragment reattachment in the Department of Prosthodontics, School of Stomatology, the Fourth Military Medical University from January 2016 to August 2024. The success rate of the fractured teeth 3 years after reattachment and the complications during the follow-up period were retrospectively analyzed. The 3-year success rate and complications during follow-up were evaluated to assess the clinical efficacy of this technique. Results: The 14 treated teeth were followed for an average of (36.0±33.7) months (range: 4-99 months). Complications occurred in 2 teeth: one was extracted due to debonding and replaced with a removable partial denture, while the other developed a palatal sinus post-reattachment, which healed after local saline irrigation and medication (followed for 12 months without recurrence). The remaining 12 teeth exhibited no complications, resulting in a success rate of 13/14. Conclusions: Fragment reattachment is a minimally invasive, rapid, and cost-effective treatment option for sub-gingival & supra-alveolar ridge CRF in the anterior esthetic zone. With strict case selection, it delivers favorable outcomes and extends the clinical lifespan of affected teeth.