Dental subluxation
Contents
Background
Clinical Features
- Tooth is mobile but is still in original anatomic position
- If multiple consecutive teeth are involved, rule out underlying alveolar ridge
fracture or other Mandible fracture
Differential Diagnosis
Dentoalveolar Injuries
Odontogenic Infections
- Acute alveolar osteitis
- Acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis (trench mouth)
- Dental caries (pulpitis)
- Ludwig's angina
- Periapical abscess
- Pericoronitis
- Periodontal abscess
- Peritonsillar abscess (PTA)
- Retropharyngeal abscess
- Vincent's angina - tonsillitis and pharyngitis
Other
Evaluation
Management
Extrusive Luxation
- Reposition tooth
- Follow up within 24hr for stabilization
- Temporizing measure: Periodontal pack (e.g.-Coe-Pak) in which tooth is bonded to its two neighboring teeth on both sides
Lateral Luxation
- More extensive injury than extrusive luxation
- Associated with cracking or fracture of the surrounding alveolar bone
- Attempt repositioning of tooth
- Apply temporary splinting with periodontal dressing
- Follow up within 24hr for stabilization
Intrusive Luxation
- Most serious because of significant damage to alveolar socket and periodontal ligament
- Allow tooth to erupt on its own