Question

An 8 year old patient with all primary molars still

present exhibits a cusp-to-cusp relationship of
permanent maxillary and mandibular first molars
and good alignment of the lower incisors. The
management of this patient should be to
A. refer for orthodontic consultation.
B. use a cervical headgear to reposition maxillary
molars.
C. disk the distal surfaces of primary mandibular
second molars.
D. place patient on appropriate recall schedule.

Answer 1

An 8-year-old with all primary molars and a cusp-to-cusp relationship of the permanent molars should be placed on a recall schedule for monitoring, with orthodontic intervention if necessary as they grow.

Step-by-step explanation:

The management of an 8-year-old patient with all primary molars still present, exhibiting a cusp-to-cusp relationship of permanent maxillary and mandibular first molars and good alignment of the lower incisors, should be to place the patient on an appropriate recall schedule. A referral for an orthodontic consultation is not immediately necessary as the cusp-to-cusp relationship may resolve as the permanent molars erupt fully and the jaws grow. Disking the distal surfaces of primary mandibular second molars or using cervical headgear to reposition maxillary molars are more aggressive treatments that are generally not necessary at this stage of dental development. Regular monitoring through a recall schedule allows for timely intervention if the occlusion does not self-correct as growth progresses.