DMD - Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry Pediatric Dentistry and Pedodontics Questions and Answers Flashcards

Which local anesthetic is contraindicated in children under 4 years of age due to risk of methemoglobinemia?

Answer: Prilocaine

Prilocaine is metabolized to o-toluidine, which can oxidize hemoglobin to methemoglobin, posing a risk especially in young children with immature metabolic systems.

A 7-year-old has a mesially drifted permanent first molar after early loss of the primary second molar. What is the primary treatment goal?

Answer: Regain lost space with a space regainer appliance

When significant space loss has already occurred after premature primary second molar loss, a space regainer is used to push the molar distally and recover the arch length.

Enamel hypoplasia in primary teeth is most commonly caused by which prenatal or perinatal factor?

Answer: Premature birth or low birth weight

Systemic disturbances during amelogenesis, most notably prematurity and low birth weight, disrupt enamel matrix formation and result in hypoplastic defects in primary teeth.

What is the appropriate management of an avulsed permanent tooth in a 9-year-old with an open apex?

Answer: Replant immediately and monitor for revascularization

Teeth with open apices have the best potential for pulp revascularization when replanted promptly, so immediate replantation is recommended followed by close monitoring.

Which topical fluoride product has the highest concentration and requires professional application?

Answer: 1.23% acidulated phosphate fluoride (APF) gel

1.23% APF gel contains the highest fluoride concentration among professionally applied topical agents and must be used in-office due to ingestion risk.

A child with Down syndrome is most likely to exhibit which dental finding?

Answer: Delayed eruption and hypodontia

Children with Down syndrome frequently present with delayed tooth eruption, congenitally missing teeth, and small teeth as characteristic dental features.