Osseo-gingival pathology as sequelae of dental trauma to the primary upper incisor: a case series

Abstract

Background: Osseo-gingival pathology (OGP) may be observed in traumatized primary teeth, and its knowledge is essential for treatment decision.

Aim: To describe the occurrence and treatment of OGP in traumatized primary upper incisors.

Design: One examiner collected data from patients' charts of the Clinic of Trauma in Primary Teeth of the University of Sao Paulo. OGP was divided into apical fenestration (AF), total gingival recession (TGR), and partial gingival recession (PGR).

Results: From 2516 charts, 61 patients (2.4%) presented 73 teeth with OGP (9.6% AF, 19.2% TGR and 71.2% PGR). OGP was observed in 63% of male and 43.8% of children aged 4-5 years old. Mean time between trauma and diagnosis was 15 months AF, 23.5 months TGR, and 7.5 months PGR. Periodontal trauma occurred in 86.3% of teeth with OGP. Pulp necrosis was observed in all cases of AF and 92.9% of TGR; however, 76.9% of PGR were vital. All teeth with AF and 85.7% of TGR were extracted, and 44.2% of PGR were monitored.

Conclusions: Osseo-gingival pathology has low occurrence in traumatized primary upper incisors. The treatment for AF and TGR is tooth extraction, and for PGR is tooth monitoring or extraction depending on the case severity.