This post is an adaptation of the Alveolar Fracture article found in the Dental Trauma Guide
Description
- A fracture of the alveolar process; may or may not involve the alveolar socket.
- Teeth associated with alveolar fractures are characterized by mobility of the alveolar process; several teeth typically will move as a unit when mobility is checked. Occlusal interference is often present.
Etiology
Diagnosis
- A fracture of the alveolar process; may or may not involve the alveolar socket.
- Teeth associated with alveolar fractures are characterized by mobility of the alveolar process; several teeth typically will move as a unit when mobility is checked. Occlusal interference is often present
- Visual signs: Displacement of an alveolar segment. An occlusal change due to misalignment of the fractured alveolar segment is often noted.
- Percussion test Tender.
- Mobility test: Entire segment mobile and moves as a unit.
- Sensibility pulp test: Usually negative.
- Radiographic findings: The vertical line of the fracture may run along the PDL or in the septum. The horizontal line may be located at any level, from the marginal bone to the basal bone. An associated root fracture may be present.
- Radiographs recommended: Occlusal, periapical and eccentric exposure. A panoramic or a cone beam exposure may be useful.
Treatment
- Apply local anesthesia.
- Manually reposition using finger pressure labially and lingually to reposition the dsiplaced segment.
- Clean the area with water spray, saline, or cholrhexidine.
- suture gingival laceration, if present.
- Apply splint for stabilisation of the segment for 4 weeks
- Follow-up
- Splint removal and clinical and radiographic control after 4 weeks.
- clinical and radiographic controls after 6-8 weeks, 4 months, 6 months,1 year and yearly for 5 years.
The content and images are the property of The Dental Trauma Guide and are reproduced with their consent.
Do you have any particular question on this topic? Do you have any comments or suggestions? Email us at oasisdiscussions@cda-adc.ca
You are invited to comment on this post and provide further insights by posting in the comment box which you will find by clicking on “Post a reply“ below. You are welcome to remain anonymous and your email address will not be posted.