Pediatric Dentistry · single question
CASE 1 — Pediatric patient: Tooth L (primary mandibular first molar) has large caries on BOTH the occlusal AND lingual surfaces. What is the best treatment?
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Correct answer: C. Stainless steel crown (SSC)
- A. Amalgam is an option for posterior primary teeth but multi-surface involvement (occlusal + lingual) favors SSC for durability.
- B. Composite in primary molars with extensive multi-surface caries has poor longevity compared to SSC.
- C. Large multi-surface caries (occlusal + lingual) in a primary molar = SSC (stainless steel crown). Per AAPD guidelines, SSC is the most durable, cost-effective restoration for extensively carious primary posterior teeth.
- D. SDF arrests caries but does not restore lost tooth structure — not appropriate as definitive treatment here.
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