Avulsion Prognosis Factor — NDEB AFK MCQ

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EasyPaediatric DentistryAvulsion Prognosis FactorNDEB AFK

Which of the following is the most important factor determining the prognosis of a replanted avulsed permanent tooth?

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Correct answer: A — Extra-alveolar dry time

The extra-alveolar dry time (time the tooth is outside the socket in a non-physiological storage medium or completely dry) is the single most important prognostic factor for replanted avulsed teeth. PDL cells begin dying after 15-20 minutes of dry storage. After 60 minutes dry, most PDL cells are non-viable, leading to replacement resorption (ankylosis). Teeth stored in physiological media (HBSS, cold milk, saliva, saline) within 5 minutes have the best prognosis. The goal is to keep PDL cells alive.

Reference: IADT – Guidelines for Management of Traumatic Dental Injuries, 2020