Endodontics · single question
Which tooth fracture type has the BEST prognosis?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. Crown infraction
Crown infraction (incomplete enamel fracture without loss of structure) has the best prognosis because only enamel is involved, with no dentin, pulp, or structure loss.
- A. Cracked tooth syndrome has a guarded prognosis — cracks can propagate toward the root, with long-term prognosis depending heavily on crack depth.
- B. CORRECT. Crown infraction = incomplete fracture of enamel only, with no tooth structure lost. Prognosis is excellent — no pulp involvement, typically only requires monitoring and possibly sealant.
- C. Crown-root fractures have variable prognosis depending on how far below the gingival margin the fracture extends.
- D. Vertical root fracture has the WORST prognosis of all fracture types and virtually always results in extraction.