Pediatric mandibular fracture: An unusual etiology

Introduction: Mandibular fractures in children are rare and different from adults in terms of etiology, epidemiology, treatment considerations and associated complications. Thick adipose tissue, elasticity of the bone and protective nature of the parents have a protective influence on the prevalence of mandibular fractures in pediatric age group. However, lack of education may be a factor influencing the etiology of such injuries as shown in the present case. Case report: The present case report describes a rare case of mandibular fracture inflicted unintentionally by his mother in an 18 month old child during drinking of water directly from the tap in his mouth. The fracture was treated conservatively using custom-made cap splint and circum-mandibular wiring. Conclusion: The purpose of this case report is to motivate pediatric dentists that parents coming to them for treatment of their children should not only be educated regarding the care of teeth and gums, but should take care of the oral cavity as a whole. Also, through this paper it is stressed that supervision of the growing child is utmost important to avoid such injuries. Copyright (C) 2014 The Japanese Society of Pediatric Dentistry. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.