Start practicing

Endodontics · single question

Regarding pulp necrosis risk after dental trauma, which statement is most accurate?

  1. Mature, closed-apex teeth (typical in adults) are generally MORE susceptible to pulp necrosis after trauma than immature, open-apex teeth (typical in children), which have richer blood supply and greater healing potential
  2. Children's teeth are always more easily rendered necrotic after trauma than adult teeth
  3. Immediate root canal therapy is mandatory for every traumatized tooth regardless of findings
  4. Pulp necrosis risk is unrelated to apex maturity
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: A. Mature, closed-apex teeth (typical in adults) are generally MORE susceptible to pulp necrosis after trauma than immature, open-apex teeth (typical in children), which have richer blood supply and greater healing potential

Immature teeth with open apices generally have richer blood supply and greater healing/revascularization potential after trauma than mature, closed-apex teeth, which are more vulnerable to necrosis. For many trauma types without urgent findings, watchful monitoring with follow-up testing over time is an appropriate initial approach rather than immediate, reflexive root canal therapy.

Practice Endodontics questions Endodontics study notes

More Endodontics practice questions