Healing of a horizontal root fracture with lateral luxation of the coronal fragment: A 3-year follow-up

The prognosis for teeth that exhibit root fractures is strongly influenced by patient age, stage of root development, tooth mobility, dislocation of the coronal fragment and potential degree of segment separation, repositioning of the segments and the type of splint used. This is a case of a horizontal chisel-type root fracture in the middle third of a maxillary central incisor with the added complication of lateral luxation of the coronal fragment. Addressed in this case are the treatment, clinical and radiographic changes observed over a 3-year period where the pulp vitality status was preserved, thus achieving healing and possible revascularisation of the segments, along with completion of root development. During this time frame, the tooth remained clinically asymptomatic with no signs of periradicular pathosis. However, a subtle discoloration in the crown was observed along with the tooth being slightly malposed. Keywords: luxation injuries, prognosis, root fracture, root fracture healing