Conservative management of root-fractured primary incisor – case report

Abstract

Most frequent trauma to primary dentitions are injures to the supporting tissue i.e. luxations, but root fractures are relatively uncommon. The difference in the trauma pattern favoring luxation rather than fracture has been found to be typical for the primary dentition, since the elasticity of the alveolar bone surrounding the primary teeth is high and primary tooth held in alveolar socket is less strong. Incidence of foot fractures increases at the age of 3-4 years where physiologic root resorption has begun, thereweakening the root. Traumatic injuries to the primary dentition present special problems and the management is often different as compared with the permanent dentition. Because of potential sequelae of trauma to primary teeth, a treatment method that minimizes any additional risks of further damage to the permanent successors should be selected. The report presents a case of 3.5 year-old boy after traumatic injury – extrusion of tooth 51, which required surgical treatment, and apical third horizontal root fracture of tooth 61 treated conservatively. Written consent from subject’s parents/subject’s legal guardians was obtained. Root-fractured primary tooth has been followed clinically and radiographically for 3.5 year, till advanced root resorption. Presented case and cases described in cited literature demonstrate that conservative treatment of root-fractured primary teeth is a favorable method of the treatment that allows the teeth to function naturally until the term of physiological resorption and exfoliation.