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Endodontics · single question

An avulsed permanent tooth is brought to the office. Which of the following should NOT be done?

  1. Rinse the root gently with saline if visibly contaminated
  2. Handle the tooth by the crown only
  3. Scrub or soak the root in chlorhexidine
  4. Replant the tooth as quickly as possible
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: C. Scrub or soak the root in chlorhexidine

  • A. ❌ Correct handling — a GENTLE saline rinse to remove gross debris is recommended; scrubbing is not.
  • B. ❌ Correct handling — grasping only the crown protects the PDL cells on the root.
  • C. ✅ CORRECT — This is what must NOT be done. The survival of the tooth depends on the viability of the PERIODONTAL LIGAMENT CELLS on the root surface. Scrubbing them off mechanically, or killing them chemically with chlorhexidine, guarantees ankylosis and replacement resorption.
  • D. ❌ Correct handling — extra-oral dry time is the single strongest predictor of outcome. Replant within 15–20 minutes if possible.

Note: Best storage media: HBSS (Save-A-Tooth) > cold milk > saliva/saline. NEVER water — it is hypotonic and lyses the PDL cells.

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