Broken tooth: a biological foreign body—case report

Abstract

Background: Broken tooth fragments that get lodged post trauma in oral cavity lacerations should not go unnoticed during primary care of the patient. Tooth fragments can act as a biological foreign body. Unnoticed foreign bodies can give rise to granulomas, sepsis, and fistula formation. Aim: This article stresses on the need for all primary contact medical staff and residents to pay additional attention on patients with a loose/broken tooth and a laceration. Early removal of tooth fragment is key to avoiding granuloma formation and thus the need to excise the surrounding tissue. Case presentation: A 70-year-old female presented with a post traumatic upper lip swelling. A broken tooth fragment was studied on plain CT scan and removed under local anesthesia. A speedy restoration of normal anatomy was seen due to early diagnosis and removal. Conclusions: Dental traumas, being the commonest maxillofacial injuries, have a significant impact on the physical, cosmetic, and emotional health of the patient. Careful assessment of a patient with history of trauma and a missing/broken tooth is mandatory.