CAD/CAM Endocrown Fabrication from a Polymer-Infiltrated Ceramic Network Block for Primary Molar: A Case Report

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Dentistry
• Restorative Dentistry
• Dental Materials

Background:

• Deep carious lesions in primary molars require effective and durable restorative solutions.
• Pulpotomy is a vital pulp therapy for primary teeth with deep decay.
• Endocrowns offer a conservative approach to restoring extensively damaged primary molars.

Observation:

• A 7-year-old patient presented with severe caries on primary molar #85.
• A pulpotomy was performed, followed by the planning of an endocrown restoration due to significant tooth structure loss.
• A computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) polymer-infiltrated ceramic network (PICN) block was selected for the endocrown fabrication.

Findings:

• The CAD/CAM PICN endocrown demonstrated excellent marginal fit and preserved the tooth's anatomical form.
• Radiographic examination at 9 months showed no signs of pulpal or periradicular pathology.
• No discoloration of the endocrown was observed during the follow-up period.

Implications:

• CAD/CAM PICN endocrowns show promise as a viable restorative material for primary teeth.
• Further clinical studies are needed to evaluate long-term outcomes, including effects on opposing teeth.
• This approach offers an advanced and prompt restoration option for pediatric dental patients.