This section reviews injuries to the primary and permanent dentition.

As in any injury, an adequate history is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment.  Before initiating any treatment, a systemic and neurological assessment of the child should be completed.  The child’s general health history should be reviewed.  Depending on the nature of the injury, adequate tetanus immunization should be ensured.

Clinical examination should rule out major systemic injury and include facial and neck palpation to determine if any injuries have occurred to bones, joints, or soft tissues.

Intra-oral examination should include the injured tooth or tissues as well as all surrounding soft and hard oral tissues for possible secondary injuries.  Radiographs are requested based on clinical findings.