During upper molar extraction, a 6mm palatal root tip separates. It is undisplaced and there is no associated infection or pathology. What is the most appropriate management?

Correct answer: D. Leave the root tip in place

• A. ❌ Raising a buccal flap for a palatal root tip is anatomically incorrect and unnecessarily invasive.
• B. ❌ Blind elevator use risks pushing the fragment into the maxillary sinus.
• C. ❌ Immediate referral is not indicated when the fragment is non-pathological and undisplaced.
• D. ✅ Correct. For a small root tip (≤6mm) that is asymptomatic, undisplaced, not associated with infection, and at risk of displacement into the sinus — leaving it in place is the preferred management. Patient should be informed and monitored radiographically.