The most common injury site is the maxillary (upper) central incisors, which account for more than 50% of all dental injuries. Oral injuries typically result from falls (most common), bike and car accidents, sports-related injuries, and violence. The mouth is also a common site for non-accidental trauma, and child abuse should always be considered in a child presenting with oral trauma.
In addition, pediatricians should be cognizant of the following risk factors for oral trauma:
Children with compromised protective reflexes or poor coordination
Hyperactivity
Substance abuse (by the adolescent or within the family)
Child abuse or neglect
Malocclusion: An abnormality in the coming together of teeth.
