Contemporary Approach for Traumatic Dental Injuries in the Primary Dentition

Management of traumatic dental injuries (TDI) is very complex, even under ideal circumstances. Children in the primary dentition have unique needs, and it is important that the diagnosis and treatment choices are offered to parents. The prevalence of TDI in the primary dentition is far greater than for any other age group. Education of parents and caregivers in prevention and emergency management of oral injuries is essential. When injuries occur, the dental professionals must also respond appropriately to establish correct diagnosis of the injuries and assist parents in making decisions for management while communicating realistic expectations for the future. Progress has been made in the diagnosis and management of dental injuries in the primary dentition based on the biological healing response of oral tissues following injury over time. Several factors influence critical decisions that must be made based on basic principles and guidelines to improve successful outcomes for the child. Managing co-operation must be balanced with the benefit of anticipated treatment need. The current evidence challenges previous dental interventions. The IADT guidelines updated the approach to management of TDI in children in the primary dentition. Encouraging a positive attitude to the dental setting early in the life course prepares the child to be a motivated dental attendee throughout their lifetime. This manuscript aimed to outline the critical issues and clinical choices for injuries to the primary dentition and to summarise recent guidance from the International Association of Dental Traumatology (IADT).