Oral Surgery · single question
After a patient swallows a dental crown during treatment, which of the following is NOT a concern for the patient?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. Bradycardia (slow pulse)
If a crown is swallowed (goes to the stomach), the primary concerns are: GI obstruction (if the crown is large) and monitoring for natural passage. Most smooth crowns pass through the GI tract without incident. Bradycardia (slow pulse) is NOT a consequence of swallowing a crown — this would only be relevant if a vagal response occurred during the event. Aspiration (going to the lungs instead of stomach) is a separate, more serious concern.
- A. ✅ CORRECT – Bradycardia (slow pulse) is NOT a consequence of swallowing a dental crown.
- B. ❌ Choking/aspiration is a concern if the crown went to the airway rather than the esophagus — must confirm with radiograph.
- C. ❌ GI obstruction is possible if the crown lodges somewhere in the GI tract.
- D. ❌ Most crowns pass naturally; patient should be advised to monitor for passage and have a radiograph taken.