A pediatric patient sustained an Ellis Class III crown fracture (pinpoint pulp exposure) 3 days ago. The recommended management for this small, recent exposure is:

Correct answer: A. Direct pulp cap

• A. Correct. For a small, recent vital exposure with favorable conditions, direct pulp capping (e.g., with MTA/calcium hydroxide) is appropriate; a partial pulpotomy is also used for larger/older exposures.
• B. Routine extraction is not indicated for a treatable vital tooth.
• C. No treatment risks contamination and pulpal necrosis.
• D. Implants are not placed in growing children.

Note: For larger exposures or contamination >a few days, a partial (Cvek) pulpotomy is preferred.