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Dental Trauma, continued
4. Intrusion
 
Tooth is pushed into the socket and the alveolar bone. May appear shortened or even barely visible.
 
Poor prognosis and high risk for complications, including root resorption,
Pulp: The highly vascular sensitive tissue occupying the central cavity of a tooth.
pulp necrosis, and infection. May require root canal.
 
May damage underlying permanent dentition, especially if an infection develops.
 
Teeth may re-erupt. Approximately 90% of primary teeth re-erupt in
2 to 6 months. Permanent teeth may also re-erupt. If a primary tooth does not re-erupt, it will require extraction to not interfere with permanent tooth eruption.
 
Do not attempt to remove intruded tooth. Instead, focus on pain control and consider antibiotic prophylaxis.
 
For a primary tooth, seek dental evaluation within 1 week (or earlier, for significant symptoms).
 
For a permanent tooth, refer to a dentist immediately for repositioning and splinting.

5. Extrusion
 
Tooth is partially displaced from its socket.
 
Requires re-positioning and stabilization.
 
Refer to a dentist promptly to evaluate the extent of injury, as well as any associated injury (eg, fracture).

 
 
All permanent tooth injuries should be examined by a dentist, with the timeline dictated by the type of injury.
 
Repositioning and splinting are often required for tooth injuries.
 
90% of intruded primary teeth re-erupt within 6 months.
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