What is the treatment for a primary enamel-dentin fracture?

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

When a primary tooth has an enamel-dentin fracture without pulp exposure, the main objective is to protect the exposed dentin and prevent microleakage so the tooth can remain functional until it naturally exfoliates. Sealing the fracture completely with glass ionomer cement achieves this well: glass ionomer bonds to both dentin and enamel, provides a good seal over the fracture line, reduces dentin tubule sensitivity, and releases fluoride to help resist caries. It’s also relatively forgiving to place in a child’s mouth and doesn’t require complex pulp treatment when there’s no exposure.

Other options aren’t appropriate here because they imply scenarios that aren’t present. A partial pulpotomy would be indicated only if there were pulpal exposure with signs of inflammation or infection. Extraction would remove a tooth that is still functional and will be replaced by a permanent successor, which isn’t necessary for a simple fracture. Crown lengthening isn’t used in primary teeth, as the goal is to preserve the tooth until natural exfoliation.