Infraction injuries involve damage or cracking of the
enamel without any loss of tooth structure. Only a few
studies have investigated pulpal complications following
this type of injury. Pulpal complications are considered
to be rare (0–3.5 per cent) unless there is an associated
luxation injury.
Pulp treatment should only be
carried out in the presence of signs and symptoms of
irreversible pulpitis or pulp necrosis with infection. In
assessing pulpal damage, clinicians must remain
cognizant of the fact that reactions to pulp sensibility
testing in traumatized teeth are lowered immediately
following trauma and longer observation times (up to
at least eight weeks initially) may be required before a
definitive decision can be made regarding the state of
the pulp.
As with all traumatic injuries, further
follow-up after 12 months is advised.