Crown-Root Fracture — ORE Part 1 MCQ
Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.
Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.
Reveal the answer and explanation
Correct answer: A — Crown-root fracture
Explanation lettering: E = shown as B · B = shown as C · C = shown as E
A crown-root fracture is defined as a fracture involving enamel, dentin, and cementum that extends below the gingival margin. This distinguishes it from crown fractures (which involve only enamel and/or dentin and do not extend below the gingival margin) and root fractures (which involve only root structure). The defining feature is that the fracture line extends subgingivally, affecting both the coronal and radicular portions of the tooth. This has clinical significance because crown-root fractures involve both pulpal and periodontal injury, making them among the most challenging traumatic dental injuries to manage. Options B and D (complicated and uncomplicated crown fractures) involve only the crown above the gingival margin. Option C (root fracture) involves only the root. Option E (alveolar fracture) refers to fracture of the supporting bone, not tooth structure.
Reference: International Association of Dental Traumatology, Diangelis AJ, et al. (2012). Guidelines for the management of traumatic dental injuries: 1. Fractures and luxations of permanent teeth. Dental Traumatology, 28(1):2–12. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22230724/