Luxation injuries of primary anterior teeth--prognosis and related correlates

This study investigated the prognosis and related correlates of 307 luxation injuries of primary anterior teeth sustained by 222 patients. Primary anterior teeth that had sustained luxation injuries were identified from the dental records of a pediatric dental practice. Data collected included: the child's birth date, sex, and occlusion; date, etiology, and type of injury; treatment rendered; and post-traumatic sequelae. The mean age of children at the time of injury was 3.8 years, and the most common etiology was a fall. Those children sustaining intrusions were significantly younger than those sustaining extrusions or avulsions. Sports accidents were more likely to cause lateral luxations, while bike accidents were more likely to cause extrusions and avulsions. Root fractures were significantly associated with lateral luxations. The risk of sustaining a lateral luxation increased as age increased. There was an association between the development of post-traumatic sequelae and the repositioning of displaced teeth. Lateral luxations had a marked increase risk of necrosis when repositioned; conversely, intrusions had a decreased risk of necrosis when repositioned. Those groups with the best post-trauma tooth survival during the first year postinjury were those > 5 years old and < 2 years old. Hypoplastic defects were noted on 7.7% of the succedaneous teeth and their prevalence was not statistically associated with the type of luxation injuries.