Restorative & Materials · single question
A lingual cusp of tooth #29 is fractured. What is the FIRST thing to assess?
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Correct answer: C. Restorability of the tooth
Before any further assessment or treatment planning, determine if the tooth is RESTORABLE. If the fracture extends subgingivally beyond the biologic width, the tooth may need crown lengthening surgery or extraction before any restoration is possible. Restorability assessment determines the entire treatment pathway.
- A. ❌ Pulp vitality is important but is meaningless if the tooth is not restorable.
- B. ❌ Percussion sensitivity is part of the exam but not the first priority decision.
- C. ✅ Restorability — the fundamental first question; if the tooth cannot be restored, further testing is irrelevant.
- D. ❌ Radiograph is essential but comes after the clinical restorability assessment.
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