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

Multiple Choice

In an immature tooth with intrusive luxation greater than 7 millimeters, the recommended treatment is

When a developing tooth is severely intruded—more than 7 mm—the eruption pathway is severely disrupted and spontaneous re-eruption is unlikely to occur promptly or reliably. In immature teeth, the open apex offers potential for pulp revascularization, but the extent of intrusion often prevents natural realignment and can lead to prolonged occlusal dysfunction or ankylosis if left untreated. Repositioning the tooth, either surgically or with orthodontic means, is the preferred approach because it quickly restores the correct position and eruption path, reduces the risk of long-term complications, and sets the stage for normal root development and healing. After repositioning, stabilization with a splint and careful follow-up are important to monitor pulp vitality and root trajectory, with endodontic intervention only if signs of pulp necrosis or other pathology develop. Extraction is reserved for non-restorable cases, which is not the typical scenario here.

When a developing tooth is severely intruded—more than 7 mm—the eruption pathway is severely disrupted and spontaneous re-eruption is unlikely to occur promptly or reliably. In immature teeth, the open apex offers potential for pulp revascularization, but the extent of intrusion often prevents natural realignment and can lead to prolonged occlusal dysfunction or ankylosis if left untreated.

Repositioning the tooth, either surgically or with orthodontic means, is the preferred approach because it quickly restores the correct position and eruption path, reduces the risk of long-term complications, and sets the stage for normal root development and healing. After repositioning, stabilization with a splint and careful follow-up are important to monitor pulp vitality and root trajectory, with endodontic intervention only if signs of pulp necrosis or other pathology develop. Extraction is reserved for non-restorable cases, which is not the typical scenario here.