THE PROGNOSIS OF INTENTIONALLY RETAINED ROOT FRAGMENT OF PRIMARY TEETH

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Journal of the Korean Academy of Pediatric Dentistry 2007;34(1):156-161.
Published online February 28, 2007.

THE PROGNOSIS OF INTENTIONALLY RETAINED ROOT FRAGMENT OF PRIMARY TEETH

부산대학교 치과대학 소아치과학교실

의도적으로 남겨진 유치근 파절편의 예후

이상훈, 김신, 정태성

부산대학교 치과대학 소아치과학교실

Correspondence: ,

Abstract

Pediatric dentists are frequently encountered with fractured root fragments of primary teeth caused either by the traumatic injuries or by the accidental fractures during the procedure of tooth extractions. In these situations, we often hesitate which method to choose, extract or retain it. In general, it is recommended to retain apical fragments, as the attempts to extract the apical fragments might harm the developing permanent tooth germ. This study was designed to ensure the validity of intentional retention of the root fragments of primary teeth in the situations described above. 6 children with intentionally root fragments who experienced root fracture in primary anterior teeth were available Periodic radiographic assessment was performed at 3 months interval for 7~37 months. The results of this study showed that apical fragments had been resorbed through physiologic process in 5 patients. Apical fragment had been gingival emergence along with the erupting permanent tooth in 1 patient. There were no evidence of interference with eruption of permanent successors. In summary we have been ensured the validity of intentionally retention of the root fragments of primary teeth. Children with being remained apical root fragment should be recalled regularly for assessment and parents should be thoroughly informed about the situation with special emphasis on the necessity of periodic check-up.

Key Words: Root fracture of primary teeth, Intentional retention, Root resorption of primary teeth