Penetrating intraoral injury from toothbrush: A case report

Abstract

The use of toothbrush, a common commodity recommended by dentists all over the world has significantly reduced the incidence of periodontal infections and dental caries. But along with disease reduction brushing has also added a relative risk factor of injury to oral tissues. Minor injuries may result primarily due to improper brushing techniques, where as major penetrating injuries may occur due to fall of the person with brush in the oral cavity, particularly in children. Penetrating injuries to the oropharyngeal tissue may present as medical emergencies due to the possibility of compromised airway, intracranial trauma, mediastinitis, and emphysema. Also benign-appearing injuries to the soft palate and peritonsillar tissues, due to their close proximity to arterial–venous structure may conceal deeper damage. Due to the gravity of possible complications, careful assessment, early treatment and post-trauma monitoring is essential even if the initial injury appears to be minor, as complications may not manifest immediately. Here we report a case of penetrating intraoral injury caused by a toothbrush.