Lateral oblique ← specialist view for maxillofacial fractures
Lateral skull ← specialist view for maxillofacial fractures
AP skull ← specialist view for maxillofacial fractures
Occipitomental ← specialist view for maxillofacial fractures
In the patients clinical notes the clinical and radiographic examinations at each visit
can be combined into a simple aide-memoir in the form of a 'trauma stamp' (671HFig.
12.7). Information that is collected in this standardized way is easily accessible when
making clinical decisions and comparing responses at review appointments.
672H
Fig. 12.7 The 'trauma stamp'.12.4.6 Photographic records
Good clinical photographs are useful to assess outcome of treatment and for medico-
legal purposes. Written consent must be obtained and in the case of digital images,
uncropped originals held in an appropriately secure format and location.
Key Points
- Develop a systematic approach to history and examination
12.5 INJURIES TO THE PRIMARY DENTITION
12.5.0 Introduction
During its early development the permanent incisor is located palatally to and in close
proximity with the apex of the primary incisor. With any injury to a primary tooth
there is risk of damage to the underlying permanent successor.
Most accidents in the primary dentition occur between 2 and 4 years of age.
Realistically, this means that few restorative procedures will be possible and in the
majority of cases the decision is between extraction or maintenance without
performing extensive treatment. A primary incisor should always be removed if its
maintenance will jeopardize the developing tooth bud.
A traumatized primary tooth that is retained should be assessed regularly for clinical
and radiographic signs of pulpal or periodontal complications. Radiographs may even
detect damage to the permanent successor. Soft tissue injuries in children should be
assessed weekly until healed. Tooth injuries should be reviewed every 3-4 months for
the first year and then annually until the primary tooth exfoliates and the permanent
successor is in place.
Traumatic injuries that occur prior to eruption of primary teeth can also interfere with