BACKGROUNDPost and post-core systems are used to restore extensively damaged teeth. Among these systems, cast alloy post and core, prefabricated threaded alloy post and prefabricated simple alloy post are most frequently applied in China nowadays. In Europe and North America a combined application of the fiber post, resin-core and crown has been applied to restore seriously destructed teeth with satisfactory results in recent years. This study was intended to evaluate the clinical effect of carbon fiber post system on restoration of child anterior tooth defect after root canal therapy, based on 3 - 5 years' observation.

METHODSOne hundred and six children with incompletely established occlusion were observed and followed for an average of 42 months (ranging from 36 to 60 months). Eighty-five upper teeth and forty-one lower teeth were restored with carbon fiber post system and composite jacket crown. Periodic check-up was conducted for periodontal condition and restoration effect.

RESULTSOne hundred and twenty-one (96.2%) restorations were successful. Four jacket crowns (3.0%) were lost. One tooth (0.8%) had slight gingival inflammation. Tooth root or post fracture and gingival stain were not observed. X-ray showed there was no obvious change in aspects including the width of periodontal membrane, the density of alveolar bone and the height of alveolar ridge crest.

CONCLUSIONSCarbon-fiber post system can satisfy the clinical requirements of young patients who have residual anterior crown and root caused by trauma or caries, and have incomplete occlusion and have completed root canal therapy. This system helps realize good esthetic result for patients and easy practice for dentists. Carbon fiber post is safe and convenient, especially for sick children.