Orthodontic Extrusion in Daily Clinical Practice: Management of Fractured or Damaged Anterior Teeth

Background. Orthodontic extrusion (OE), or forced eruption, is a conservative technique used to recover teeth affected by coronal fractures, traumatic intrusions, or severe caries. It involves applying light, continuous forces to induce vertical tooth movement, promoting tissue remodeling through periodontal ligament stimulation. Materials and Methods. This narrative review included studies investigating OE as a therapeutic approach for the management of deep or subgingival carious lesions, traumatic dental injuries (such as intrusion or fracture), or for alveolar ridge augmentation in implant site development. OE is typically performed using fixed appliances such as the straight-wire system or, in selected cases, clear aligners. Forces between 30 and 100 g per tooth are applied, depending on the clinical situation. In some protocols, OE is combined with fiberotomy to minimize gingival and bone migration. Results. Studies show that OE leads to significant vertical movement and increases in buccal bone height and interproximal septa. It enhances bone volume in targeted sites, making it valuable in implant site development. Compared to surgical crown lengthening, OE better preserves periodontal tissues and improves esthetics. Conclusions. In this narrative review is analized how OE is effective for managing traumatic intrusions and compromised periodontal sites, particularly when paired with early endodontic treatment. It reduces the risks of ankylosis and root resorption while avoiding invasive procedures like grafting. Although clear aligners may limit axial tooth movement, OE remains a minimally invasive, cost-effective alternative in both restorative and implant dentistry.