Managing dental injuries

The most recent National Survey for Children’s Dental Health (2003) revealed that 13% of 15 year olds across the UK had sustained some accidental damage to their dentition. The correct management of dental injuries can have a significantly positive effect on an individual’s quality of life, having implications in terms of aesthetics, functionality and cost. Unfortunately, however, UK studies have shown that up to 50% of patients requiring treatment for dental trauma did not receive any emergency care and 59% of treatment carried out was deemed inadequate.

The research article discussed this month aims to present the current best evidence available with regard to the management of avulsed permanent teeth. It should be reminded that this article only applies to permanent teeth.