Infarction: Findings, Treatment & Trauma Assessment Example

Definition: Incomplete crack or fracture within the enamel without loss of structure.

Clinical Findings:

  • Visible as fine cracks on the enamel surface, often seen under transillumination.
  • No sensitivity or tenderness.

Radiograph:

  • Typically normal; infractions are not radiographically visible.

Treatment:

  • No treatment required if there is no associated discomfort.
  • Apply resin to seal the cracks if aesthetics or sensitivity is a concern.
  • Monitor for any progression or development of sensitivity.

Follow-Up:

  • No routine follow-up needed unless symptomatic or crack worsens.
  • Reassess if patient reports pain or sensitivity.

Based on IADT guidelines. (Dent Traumatol 2012;28:2-12)

Clinical Note: Dental Trauma Assessment (Infarction Example)

Chief Complaint:: ______________________________

History of Trauma

  • Date and Time: ______________________________
  • Location of Injury: ___________________________
  • Mechanism of Injury: (e.g., fall, sports, accident): ____________________________
  • Initial Care Provided: ________________________

Medical History

  • Allergies: _________________________________
  • Medications: ______________________________
  • Tetanus Status: ___________________________
  • Relevant Medical History: ______________________

Dental History

  • Previous Dental Injuries: ___________________________

Intraoral Findings

Soft Tissues:

  • Lacerations: No lacerations noted on the surrounding soft tissues.
  • Bleeding: No bleeding observed.
  • Swelling: No significant swelling detected.

Tooth Findings:

  • Tooth #8:
    • Fracture: Fine cracks (infractions) visible within the enamel, detected under transillumination.
    • Mobility: No abnormal mobility detected.
    • Displacement: The tooth is in its correct anatomical position.
    • Percussion: No tenderness noted upon percussion.
    • Sensitivity Testing (cold, electric pulp test): Normal response, indicating pulp vitality.

Radiograph

  • Periapical Radiograph:
    • No signs of root or apical involvement.
    • No visible fracture lines detected radiographically.
    • Periodontal ligament space appeared intact.

Plan

Immediate Management:

  1. Observation and Monitoring:
    • No immediate treatment required as the infractions were superficial and asymptomatic.
    • Advised monitoring for any signs of sensitivity or discoloration over time.
  2. Optional Treatment (If Aesthetic Concern):
    • Recommended application of a resin sealant over the infraction lines to prevent staining or bacterial infiltration, if requested by the patient.
  3. Oral Hygiene:
    • Advised meticulous oral hygiene to prevent plaque accumulation that could exacerbate the infraction lines.

Follow-Up Schedule:

  • 6 Months: Clinical and radiographic evaluation to confirm no progression or secondary complications.
  • 1 Year: Long-term follow-up to ensure the tooth remains asymptomatic and structurally stable.

Warning About Risks Associated with Dental Trauma

Although enamel infractions are typically superficial, there is a slight risk of cracks deepening or causing sensitivity over time. Regular follow-ups and prompt reporting of symptoms such as discoloration, sensitivity, or pain are essential for monitoring and management.

Author

Denota Team + AI Assistant

Dentists, start working smarter 🦷
Try Denota, free for 7 days
ai-powered dental notes

Comprehensive, professional patient notes in under 15 seconds.

Our AI is specialized to help extract all necessary details to include in your patient notes, so that you never miss a detail. Watch the demo to see a real example procedure and the notes produced. 🦷

Try Denota, free for 7 days