Tooth subluxation, without displacement - Subluxation
Definition and clinical appearance
Subluxation is defined as a physical injury to the tooth-supporting structures with some loosening of the tooth but without fracture or displacement. The signs and symptoms are marked tenderness to percussion, mobility, and “a sore tooth”. Occasionally the tooth will feel too “high” on occlusion due to periodontal ligament edema.
Response to the pulp testing is frequentlyabsent. Decisions related to endodontic treatment depend on combined information from x-ray examination and pulp testing as well as clinical symptoms. Action related to endodontic treatment may be taken after 2 months.
Clinical photograph showing subluxated left maxillary central incisor with bleeding from the periodontal pocket as a sign of subluxation. There are traces of bleeding on the tooth. No apparent displacement of the tooth is visible.
Radiographic findings
Intraoral films show the left maxillary central incisor in its normal position in the socket. In some cases, a widening of the periodontal ligament may indicate periodontal ligament edema.
