Clinical management and retrieval of foreign body inclusion in a primary tooth: a case report.

Abstract

Background: While foreign body ingestion is a frequent pediatric emergency, instances of foreign objects becoming lodged in teeth are uncommon. These can lead to infections, pain, and abscesses if left untreated. Imaging techniques such as radiovisiography and cone beam computed tomography help in detection and diagnosis.

Case presentation: A 6-year-old Indian girl was brought in with black discoloration in her upper front tooth (61) for 6 months. The initial history of biting a stone was inconsistent with radiographic findings. Radiovisiography showed a radiopaque object, and cone beam computed tomography confirmed a metallic foreign body-later identified as a stapler pin-embedded in the root canal. Upon further questioning, the child disclosed self-insertion of the pin. The object was retrieved, and the tooth was successfully treated with pulpectomy and strip crown cementation.

Conclusion: Timely diagnosis and intervention are crucial in managing foreign body inclusions in teeth. Parents should be advised about the risks of children placing small objects in their mouths, and early treatment of carious lesions is essential.