ANTERIOR TOOTH TRAUMA IN THE PRIMARY DENTITION - INCIDENCE, CLASSIFICATION, TREATMENT METHODS, AND SEQUELAE - A REVIEW OF THE LITERATURE

A review of the literature is presented to discuss anterior tooth trau ma in the primary dentition. Studies show that the incidence ranges fr om 4 percent to 30 percent and Varies depending upon the sex and age o f the child. Classification of the type of trauma is subdivided into t rauma to the tooth and trauma to the periodontium. Treatment modalitie s depend upon Various factors and range from nontreatment to splinting to extraction. Possible sequelae of primary tooth trauma may include tooth discoloration, loss of vitality, root resorption and/or abscess formation. Careful follow-up is recommended following any type of trau ma, because the ultimate goal in treatment is to prevent damage to the permanent successor.