Orthodontics · single question
A 70-year-old patient wishes to improve the appearance of their teeth. All of the following are appropriate treatment options EXCEPT:
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: C. Serial extraction
Serial extraction is a planned, sequential extraction of deciduous and sometimes permanent teeth over time to guide the eruption of permanent teeth and alleviate crowding. It is a pediatric orthodontic procedure performed in children aged 8-12 years during mixed dentition, not in adult patients. A 70-year-old patient would have no deciduous teeth remaining, making serial extraction irrelevant and inappropriate. Orthodontic braces, veneers, and Invisalign are all appropriate esthetic options for adult patients.