Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry
Core concepts
Know normal dental development, eruption timing, and the mixed dentition. Understand interceptive orthodontics, including habit correction, space maintenance, and early treatment of crossbites. Know the classification of malocclusion (Angle's classes) and the principles of fixed and removable appliance therapy.
Pediatric dentistry
Master behaviour management, caries risk assessment, prevention (fluoride, fissure sealants, diet), and restorative and pulp therapy for primary teeth. Know the management of dental trauma in children, including crown fractures, luxation injuries, and avulsion. Understand the importance of the first permanent molar and early caries prevention.
Traps
Questions often test avulsion management: replant immediately if possible, handle by the crown, and store in milk or saline if not. Another trap is confusing space maintenance indications. Do not use aspirin in children. Know that primary teeth need pulp therapy, not just extraction, when restorable.
Rule of thumb
For avulsed permanent teeth, replant as soon as possible and splint; time out of the socket is the main determinant of success.
Worked example
A child avulses an upper central incisor: handle by the crown, rinse briefly, replant immediately if the socket is intact, and refer for splinting; if not replantable, store in milk and refer urgently.