Management of permanent teeth with dentoalveolar trauma (or a history thereof) by orthodontists: Short-, medium-, and long-term considerations

Abstract

Introduction: In the practices of roughly one third of orthodontists, at least one patient has experienced the loss of a tooth following orthodontic movement of a tooth with a history of dentoalveolar trauma. Such teeth are more susceptible to pulp necrosis, pulp canal obliteration, resorption (with or without ankylosis), and alveolar bone loss.

Objective: This article aims to provide orthodontic practitioners with a clear and accessible guide to managing patients presenting with trauma or a history thereof.

Materials and method: A literature review and a synthesis of current recommendations regarding orthodontic management of traumatized permanent teeth or those with a history of trauma were conducted. This work is a narrative review of the literature, with articles included having been consulted between January 1990 and June 2023.

Results: Complications from dentoalveolar trauma weaken the tooth and the periodontium, impacting the planning and execution of orthodontic treatment.

Conclusion: Knowledge of dental traumatology and its possible consequences helps minimize risks during post-traumatic orthodontic treatment.