Pediatric Dentistry · single question
A 5-year-old child has a primary tooth intruded 4mm. What is the most appropriate management?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. Wait and allow for re-eruption
B) Wait and allow re-eruption — CORRECT.
For primary teeth that are intruded, the management depends on the direction of intrusion. If the apex is displaced AWAY from the developing permanent successor (i.e., the tooth is intruded labially/vestibularly), wait for re-eruption (the tooth typically re-erupts spontaneously). Monitoring is essential. If the apex is directed TOWARD the permanent bud, extraction is preferred to protect the permanent tooth.
For a 5-year-old with a 4mm intrusion, waiting is appropriate assuming the tooth apex is directed away from the permanent bud.
A) Immediate repositioning: Not standard for primary intrusions — risk of damaging primary or permanent teeth.
C) Immediate extraction: Only if the tooth apex threatens the permanent bud.
D) Root canal + repositioning: Not indicated for primary intruded teeth — over-treatment.
For primary teeth that are intruded, the management depends on the direction of intrusion. If the apex is displaced AWAY from the developing permanent successor (i.e., the tooth is intruded labially/vestibularly), wait for re-eruption (the tooth typically re-erupts spontaneously). Monitoring is essential. If the apex is directed TOWARD the permanent bud, extraction is preferred to protect the permanent tooth.
For a 5-year-old with a 4mm intrusion, waiting is appropriate assuming the tooth apex is directed away from the permanent bud.
A) Immediate repositioning: Not standard for primary intrusions — risk of damaging primary or permanent teeth.
C) Immediate extraction: Only if the tooth apex threatens the permanent bud.
D) Root canal + repositioning: Not indicated for primary intruded teeth — over-treatment.
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