What is Avulsion ?

Avulsion is defined as the complete and total displacement of the tooth from its socket. It is an emergency situation to save the natural tooth and replant it in the socket. The incidence of avulsion varies from 0.5 to 3% of traumatic injuries in permanent dentition and 7 to 13% in primary dentition.The medium in which the avulsed tooth is carried and also the time of replacement of an avulsed tooth is very important. The longer the luxated tooth is out of its socket, the less likely it will remain in a healthy, functional state after replantation. Usually anterior teeth is involved in an avulsion case. Young children often are more prone for avulsion since they are engaged in running / sports / fights in schools. The teeth can be presented in condition such as with open or closed apex and treatment approach varies accordingly.

How to carry Avulsed tooth to the dentist ?

The choice of storage media for preserving the avulsed tooth is extremely important for the success of future replantation of an avulsed tooth. Various transport mediums are:

• Hank’s balanced salt solution (HBSS)
• Patient’s own saliva
• Milk
• Coconut water
• Propolis
• Viaspan 

Must know facts about Avulsion

The avulsed tooth shouldn’t be held under running tap water as it can destroy the required cells, which can hamper the success of treatment. The tooth should not be wrapped in a dry handkerchief or paper tissue as well since it can spoil the cells and tissue contents. Studies have shown that extraoral time for an avulsed tooth optimally should not exceed 20 minutes and patient should be taken immediately to the dentist. Favourable or unfavourable outcome varies according to the apex of the tooth  i.e. whether it is open or closed. Follow – up of the case for atleast an year or two is important in determining the success of replanted avulsed teeth.

Article by Dr. Siri P. B.