In immature teeth with enamel-dentin-pulp fracture, the recommended initial treatment is which of the following?

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

Preserving pulp vitality is essential when an immature tooth has an enamel-dentin-pulp fracture, because continued root development (apexogenesis) strengthens the tooth and thickens dentin walls. A Cvek pulpotomy removes the small amount of inflamed coronal pulp tissue and places a calcium hydroxide dressing to promote healing and dentin bridge formation, allowing the remaining radicular pulp to stay viable. This approach supports ongoing root maturation and a timely apex closure, reducing the risk of future fracture. In contrast, root canal therapy eliminates vitality and can halt root development, which is undesirable in a tooth still growing. Extraction would remove the tooth altogether, and observation would not address the exposed pulp and the risk of infection.