Endodontics · single question
A patient has a retained radicular remnant (root tip). The patient is NOT on bisphosphonates and the root has adequate length for restoration. The most appropriate conservative treatment is:
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. Root canal treatment + post and core restoration
- A. CORRECT. If a radicular remnant has adequate root length and bone support, the conservative and preferred treatment is root canal therapy (RCT) followed by post and core buildup and crown. This preserves alveolar bone, avoids extraction, and provides a functional restoration.
- B. Incorrect. Immediate extraction without exploring restorative options would be premature if the root is adequate for restoration.
- C. Incorrect. Monitoring alone is insufficient for a retained root that may develop periapical pathology over time.
- D. Incorrect. Decoronation is specifically indicated for patients ON bisphosphonates (to avoid extraction-related osteonecrosis). This patient is NOT on bisphosphonates, so standard restorative treatment is appropriate.