Technique Tips

Enamel dentine fractures are common forms of dental trauma in children (Figures 1 and 2). Restoration of the fracture is important for aesthetic reasons but also to ensure a good prognosis for pulp. Managing a young patient presenting as an emergency with an enamel dentine fracture can often be challenging due to pain and anxiety. Using clear crown forms is a technique which is quick, simple and an effective method for restoring these teeth. The technique is widely accepted by young patients and produces an aesthetic result (Figures 3 and 4).

It is essential to carry out a full trauma assessment prior to restoring the teeth, including sensibility testing, radiographs and clinical photographs.

A buccal infiltration with lidocaine is normally sufficient.

Isolate the affected teeth using a dri-dam or rubber dam. A split dam technique can be used as it is important to see the adjacent teeth when selecting your crown. Using a dri-dam or rubber dam ensures adequate moisture control, protects the patient’s soft tissue and provides airway protection. Dri-dams or rubber dams can be secured with clamps or wedges, the latter often being more readily acceptable for paediatric patients (Figure 5).