Management of a Central Incisor with Horizontal Root Fracture for Esthetic and Functional Rehabilitation

Severely traumatized incisors in young adults are a very common problem, and one that is difficult to treat because healing of these teeth is not always predictable and implant placement has to be delayed until adulthood. This case report of a horizontal root fracture in an avulsed central incisor illustrates the ability to maintain crucial tooth structure. A lateral socket augmentation procedure after extraction of a root fragment combined with an endodontic and regenerative periodontal treatment approach could preserve natural esthetics and function, which are directly related to quality of life. The preservation of alveolar bone volume following partial root removal will eventually facilitate later placement of a dental implant with an improved esthetic and functional prosthodontic result in a patient with a high-risk esthetic profile.