Restorative & Materials · single question
Which crown fracture classification (Ellis) describes a fracture exposing DENTIN only (no pulp exposure)?
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Correct answer: C. Ellis Class 2
- A. Ellis Class 3 involves PULP EXPOSURE in a vital tooth — requires pulp capping, pulpotomy, or RCT depending on time elapsed and extent.
- B. Ellis Class 1 involves enamel ONLY — no dentin involvement. Minimal treatment required.
- C. Correct. Ellis classification: Class 1 = enamel only; Class 2 = enamel AND dentin (no pulp exposure — patient may have sensitivity); Class 3 = enamel, dentin, AND pulp exposure (vital tooth); Class 4 = non-vital tooth (pulp necrosis). Ellis Class 2 requires dentin protection (GIC/CaOH2 liner + composite) but not immediate pulp treatment.
- D. Ellis Class 4 describes a non-vital tooth (any fracture extent but pulp is necrotic).
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