In a primary crown-root fracture, which of the following is listed as a treatment option?

Prepare for the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry Oral Boards. Utilize flashcards and multiple-choice questions with hints and explanations to ace your exam!

In primary teeth with a crown-root fracture, the priority is to preserve tooth structure and maintain space for the erupting permanent successor. If the coronal fragment is available and the fracture line allows, reattaching or rebonding that fragment provides a immediate, highly esthetic restoration with minimal invasiveness. Bonding the fragment using resin-based materials after proper surface preparation stabilizes the tooth and often is done with a short splint to support healing and function. This approach preserves natural tooth structure and occlusion, which is especially valuable in children.

If the fragment cannot be salvaged due to extensive damage or subgingival involvement, removing the fragment becomes an option, with subsequent restoration or extraction considered based on restoratability and long-term prognosis. Root canal therapy is not routinely performed for crown-root fractures in primary teeth because of the goal of natural resorption and eruption of the permanent successor, and observation is generally not appropriate when there is fracture with mobility or symptoms.