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Hall Technique — MFDS Part 1 MCQ

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ModeratePaediatric Dentistry PrinciplesHall TechniqueMFDS Part 1

A 6-year-old child has an asymptomatic cavitated proximal dentine caries lesion in a primary second molar. A bitewing radiograph shows a clear band of unaffected dentine between the lesion and the pulp, with no furcation pathology. The dentist plans to manage the tooth using the Hall Technique. Which procedure should be carried out?

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Correct answer: B — Cement a preformed metal crown with glass ionomer cement, without local anaesthesia, tooth preparation or caries removal

The correct answer is B. The Hall Technique involves sealing caries within a primary molar by cementing a preformed metal crown, usually with glass ionomer luting cement, without local anaesthesia, caries removal or tooth preparation. The clear band of unaffected dentine and absence of symptoms or furcation pathology indicate suitable case selection. Complete excavation and composite placement describe conventional restorative treatment, not the Hall Technique. A pulpotomy is unnecessary without evidence of significant pulpal involvement, while extraction is not indicated for a restorable, symptom-free tooth. Silver diamine fluoride may arrest caries in selected circumstances but does not constitute the Hall Technique because no crown is placed.

Reference: Scottish Dental Clinical Effectiveness Programme (SDCEP), Prevention and Management of Dental Caries in Children: Hall Technique, current online guidance based on the 2nd edition, 2018. https://www.childcaries.sdcep.org.uk/guidance/dental-techniques/hall-technique/