Question

A young patient with a traumatized maxillary lateral incisor has an incisal fracture involving only the enamel. The accident occurred five weeks ago, and the tooth has been asymptomatic, has no radiographic evidence of pathosis and gives a positive response to ice and the electric pulp tester. Treatment of choice is to:

A. smooth and polish the incisal fracture.
B. perform a pulpotomy and wait for apexification.
C. place an indirect pulp cap with a calcium hydroxide liner covered with a ZOE base.
D. initiate endodontic therapy as the pulp will probably become necrotic.

Answer 1

The appropriate treatment for an asymptomatic traumatized maxillary lateral incisor with only enamel fracture and no signs of pulp damage is to smooth and polish the incisal fracture.

Step-by-step explanation:

The treatment of choice for a young patient with a traumatized maxillary lateral incisor that has an incisal fracture involving only the enamel, is asymptomatic after five weeks, shows no radiographic evidence of pathosis, and gives a positive response to ice and the electric pulp tester, would be A. smooth and polish the incisal fracture. This conservative treatment is appropriate because there is no indication of pulp damage or infection, and the tooth remains vital and asymptomatic. Performing more invasive procedures such as a pulpotomy, placing an indirect pulp cap, or initiating endodontic therapy are not indicated in this situation, as they are reserved for cases where the pulp is damaged or there's a high risk of its necrosis.