Custom splint: A conservative approach to pediatric mandibular dentoalveolar trauma

Abstract

Background: Traumatic dental injury is highly variable in children, commonly involving the anterior segments of the maxilla and mandible. The management of such injuries is challenging owing to the anatomical differences and stages of development. The aim of treatment (usually non-invasive) should always be to achieve a stable occlusion with minimal functional impairment. Case Report: This case report describes the conservative management of a mandibular dentoalveolar fracture in a 5-year-old child. On extra-oral examination, abrasions were noticed in the chin region with moderate facial edema in the lower part of the face. Intra-oral examination revealed labial ecchymosis in the mandibular anterior region and a step deformity between the distal aspect of #72 and #82. The displaced dentoalveolar segment was repositioned with finger pressure, and a modified closed cap splint was cemented to the reduced fractured jaw. Follow-up visits at 3 weeks and 1 year showed satisfactory healing. Conclusion: The goal in treating pediatric fractures is to restore the underlying bony structure to its preinjury position as soon as possible. The treatment of choice should be minimally invasive and should restore occlusion with minimal residual esthetic and functional impairment.