In vitro tests and a clinical examination of 51 patients who were treated over a period of 12 years have demonstrated that a composite resin core that is surrounded by a gold crown may provide the same function and strength as a conventional gold core. However, the method demands a thorough knowledge of the materials and a careful and detailed technique. The importance of an initially effective dentinal bond to the chosen hybrid composite resin is stressed. Zinc phosphate cements and the technique of cementing are also discussed. In most cases, a damaged root will have to be reinforced with a post, and the author recommends the use of a threaded titanium post that fits well and is bound to the root with a so-called passive cementation technqiue. The author has also had positive experiences with composite resin crowns, which can be expected to have a functional life of at least 10 years.