W4 (P): Tooth Conservation for Primary and Mixed Dentition

Question 1

Describe the considerations for restorative treatment in the pediatric patient

Answer 1

Child
age, cooperation, medical history, oral hygiene, diet, caries risk, anomalies (AI, DI, hypomineralisation)
Status
Degree of caries: number of surfaces, severity
Timing
length of time restoration will be in place + exfoliation time
Family
Probability child’s family will continue with dental care, Socioeconomic background - Cost, Parental preference

Question 2

Describe anatomical differences between primary and permanent molars and clinical significance

Answer 2

Enamel
Thinner, more soluble enamel, consistent depth
Pulp
Proportionally larger pulp chamber, Higher pulp horn: Mesial pulp horn. Accessory canals at furcation (45%)
Bulge
Cervical bulge more pronounced
CEJ
constricted neck
Rods
Cervical rods at CEJ slope occlusally
CA
Broad contact area
Converge
Buccal and lingual converge at occlusal
Roots
longer, slender, flare

Question 3

Identify restorative materials suitable for use in paediatric patients

Answer 3

An ideal restorative material should be quick, simple, aesthetic, painless, technique-
insensitive, sufficiently durable and inexpensive:

Question 4

Explain the importance of case selection when selecting restorative materials for the paediatric patient

Answer 4