Endodontics · single question
X-ray of premolar #5 showing a horizontal fracture at the middle third (very clear). Diagnosis and best treatment?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. Root fracture — Extraction
- A. Correct. A clearly visualized horizontal root fracture at the middle third generally has a poor prognosis for retention, and extraction is the indicated treatment in this scenario.
- B. Splinting/observation is more appropriate for fractures near the apex with better prognosis (or very recent injuries with mobile but viable segments), not the standard answer for a clear, established mid-root horizontal fracture as described here.
- C. This finding describes a fracture, not a periapical cyst.
- D. This is described as a horizontal (not vertical) fracture, and a vertical root fracture would generally also have a poor prognosis warranting extraction, not RCT.