Crown therapy in young individuals with amelogenesis imperfecta: Long term follow-up of a randomized controlled trial

Amelogenesis imperfecta (AI) is a rare, genetically determined defect in enamel mineralization. Several problems are associated with AI: hypersensitivity, wear, restorations requiring replacement, gingivitis, aesthetic problems, and social avoidance. We conducted a randomized controlled trial of crown therapy in young individuals with AI showing excellent results. This study reports results from a long-term-follow-up with focus on quality, longevity and adverse events.

The RCT included 27 patients (aged 11-22 years) with severe AI in need of crown therapy and used a split-mouth technique. After placing 119 Procera^® crowns and 108 IPS e.max Press crowns following randomization, we assessed longevity, quality, adverse events, and tooth sensitivity and calculated survival rates and success rates.

We followed the original 227 crowns for 4.3-7.4 years (mean 5.5 ± 0.8). In all, 79% (193) crowns were followed for at least 5 years. The survival rate was 99.6% and the success rate, 94.7%; 95% of the crowns had excellent or acceptable quality. Due to suboptimal marginal integrity, 4% of the crowns required adjustment. Sensitivity problems decreased after crown therapy (p < 0.001). All adverse events occurred in patients aged 19-23 years and involved apical periodontitis (3% of teeth); all but two events were related to dental trauma in the actual tooth.

Ceramic crown therapy in adolescents and young adults with severe forms of AI show excellent survival and success rates and longevity with few adverse events.

Ceramic crown therapy can be recommended for adolescents and young adults with severe forms of amelogenesis imperfecta.