A 29-year-old patient with a retained primary molar that shows no problems should have what recommendation?

A 29-year-old patient with a retained primary molar that shows no problems should have what recommendation?

• A. Extraction of the molar
• B. Leave it without treatment
• C. Perform endodontic treatment
• D. Monitor for future issues

Answer: (B)

Leaving a retained primary molar without treatment is a reasonable recommendation when the tooth is asymptomatic and shows no signs of pathology or complications. Primary molars can remain in the mouth longer than expected, often without causing problems, especially if they are functioning well in the arch and there are no indications of decay, infection, or mobility. In this situation, monitoring the tooth's condition while continuing regular dental check-ups can be beneficial, as the tooth may naturally shed or remain functional until the permanent tooth is ready to erupt. It is important to assess the patient's overall dental health during these visits, ensuring that the retained primary tooth does not impact the alignment of surrounding teeth or cause other dental issues. The options of extraction, endodontic treatment, or active intervention may be considered if there are signs of potential complications, but these are unnecessary if the tooth is healthy and functioning well. Therefore, without any issues present, leaving the tooth without treatment is the most prudent course of action.

Leaving a retained primary molar without treatment is a reasonable recommendation when the tooth is asymptomatic and shows no signs of pathology or complications. Primary molars can remain in the mouth longer than expected, often without causing problems, especially if they are functioning well in the arch and there are no indications of decay, infection, or mobility.

In this situation, monitoring the tooth's condition while continuing regular dental check-ups can be beneficial, as the tooth may naturally shed or remain functional until the permanent tooth is ready to erupt. It is important to assess the patient's overall dental health during these visits, ensuring that the retained primary tooth does not impact the alignment of surrounding teeth or cause other dental issues.

The options of extraction, endodontic treatment, or active intervention may be considered if there are signs of potential complications, but these are unnecessary if the tooth is healthy and functioning well. Therefore, without any issues present, leaving the tooth without treatment is the most prudent course of action.