Minimal intervention dentistry approach to treatment of a tense-cooperative child with trauma-related enamel hypoplasia.

Abstract

This case report describes a minimal intervention dentistry approach for a tense-cooperative boy with an enamel hypoplastic defect in an incisor as a result of a traumatic dental injury to its predecessor. The primary mandibular left central incisor (tooth O) was avulsed when the child was 2.7 years of age. At a follow-up visit 2.5 years later, the permanent mandibular left central incisor (tooth 24) was erupting and presented a change in color along with a reduction in the enamel thickness. A temporary restoration of the hypoplastic defect was performed when the child was 7.7 years of age. This conservative approach was chosen based on the child's behavior and because the lesion boundary was located near the free gingival margin due to the eruption stage of the tooth. The procedure was carried out without local anesthetic, utilizing a resin-modified glass ionomer cement and cotton roll isolation. This patient-friendly approach allowed simplification of the steps involved in the process. The child and his guardian were satisfied with the temporary restoration, and the boy regained his self-reliance regarding dental care. The family and the boy were reminded again of the importance of follow-up visits after a traumatic dental injury.