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Displaced Root Tip — NDEB AFK MCQ

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ModerateOral SurgeryDisplaced Root TipNDEB AFK

During surgical extraction of a mandibular third molar, a root tip is displaced lingually. Where is it most likely located?

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Correct answer: E — Between the lingual cortex and mucoperiosteum

A root tip displaced lingually during extraction of a mandibular third molar most commonly lies between the thin lingual cortical plate (or through a perforation) and the intact lingual mucoperiosteum. Careful palpation can often locate it. Attempting blind retrieval with an elevator can push it into the submandibular or sublingual space. If retrieval is not straightforward, imaging and referral may be necessary.

Reference: Hupp – Contemporary Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, 7th ed., 2019