Fracture Management
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Fracture management helps to preserve the vitality of teeth that may be salvaged after a traumatic event. The clinical examination of these cases involves a thorough examination of the maxilla and mandible for associated fractures and any lodged debris, dislodged teeth, or tooth fragments. Treatment planning and regular follow-ups are essential for the diagnosis of tooth fractures.
Evaluation of Fracture:
- Rule out accidental aspiration or displacement into the nose, sinuses, or soft tissue.
- Determine the type of injury to the tooth or teeth involved by obtaining a clinical and radiographic evaluation.
Types of dental fractures based on fractured tissue and pulp involvement:
- Enamel infractions
- Enamel Fractures (uncomplicated crown fracture).
- Enamel-dentin fractures (uncomplicated crown fracture).
- Enamel-dentin fractures with pulp exposure (complicated crown fracture).
- Crown-root fractures.
- Root fracture
Managing dental trauma based on the type of injury:
- Hard-tissue injuries without the involvement of the pulp typically require restoration only.
- Injuries with pulp involvement may require endodontic treatment.
- Fractures involving the alveolar bone or luxation of the tooth require stabilization, typically achieved with flexible splints.
Root canals or endodontics, surgical tooth repositioning, and flexible splinting are the most common procedures used to treat dental injuries.
Recognizing and treating these injuries is essential for proper healing and restoration of a patient's natural dentition, thereby reducing future complications.