Abstract

Dental subluxation is a traumatic injury in which the tooth has increased mobility (i.e., is loosened) but has not been displaced from its original site in the jawbone.

Prevalence

This is quite a common condition and one of the most common traumatic dental disorders. However, the exact prevalence is difficult to be assessed because dental subluxations are often asymptomatic or only mildly symptomatic, and even overlooked by caregivers when treating more serious dental traumas in adjacent teeth.

Management

Dental subluxation is not an urgent condition, and is unlikely to result in significant morbidity if not seen within 24 hours by a dentist. It is usually conservatively treated by good oral hygiene with 0.12% chlorhexidine gluconate mouthwash, a soft and cold diet, and avoidance of smoking for several days. When the injured teeth are painful, especially during function, a temporary splinting of the injured teeth may relieve the pain and enhance eating ability.