Treatment Protocol for Lateral Luxation in Young Permanent Teeth

Lateral luxation is a traumatic dental injury characterized by the displacement of a tooth in a direction other than axial, usually accompanied by alveolar bone fracture and damage to the periodontal ligament. In young permanent teeth with incomplete root formation, treatment aims to preserve pulp vitality and promote continued root development. The first step in management is a thorough clinical and radiographic examination to assess displacement, mobility, occlusal interference, and root maturity. Under local anesthesia, the displaced tooth should be gently repositioned digitally or with forceps to its original position. If there is alveolar bone fracture, careful realignment is necessary. Following repositioning, a flexible splint is recommended for stabilization for approximately 4 weeks. Oral hygiene instructions, soft diet advice, and use of chlorhexidine mouth rinse are essential to reduce infection risk. Analgesics may be prescribed for pain management.Regular follow-up is crucial at 2 weeks, 4 weeks, 6-8 weeks, 6 months, and annually for at least 5 years.