Dental evaluation specificity in orofacial damage assessment: A serial case study

Area of Science:

• Forensic Dentistry
• Traumatology
• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

Background:

• Medico-legal evaluations of post-traumatic events are increasingly common.
• Dental assessments play a key role in evaluating orofacial damage.
• This study examines the physical and psychological effects of trauma, linking impact type to sequelae.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the contribution of dental evaluations in assessing orofacial damage.
• To highlight the biopsychosocial model in post-traumatic events.
• To correlate trauma impact direction with resulting sequelae.

Main Methods:

• Observational, retrospective study using a Portuguese medico-legal database.
• Serial case study design.
• Classification of trauma by impact direction: frontal, lateral, and bidirectional.

Main Results:

• Seven cases met inclusion criteria for this pilot study.
• Common findings included involvement of the lower facial thirds and temporomandibular joint.
• Maxillary bone fracture healing does not always result in full recovery (restitutio ad integrum).

Conclusions:

• Impact direction can guide clinical examination for permanent impairment detection.
• Temporomandibular joint disorders and associated psychosocial repercussions are significant.
• Medical-dental examinations are vital for comprehensive damage assessment.