Enamel-dentin crown fracture management includes which of the following statements?

• A. Involved tooth may exhibit discomfort but the athlete can RTP as pain permits with a mouthguard; refer to a dentist; definitive management within 24 hours; tooth fragment placed in liquid and sent with the athlete to the dentist
• B. Immediate extraction is required
• C. No dental referral is needed
• D. Only cosmetic bonding is required immediately on-field

Answer: (A)

Enamel-dentin crown fractures in athletes are managed with a plan that balances immediate protection and timely definitive care. Even if there’s some discomfort, the athlete can return to play with a properly fitted mouthguard, provided there are no other injuries or signs of more serious damage. The essential step is a dental referral for definitive treatment within a short window, typically about 24 hours, so the dentist can assess, restore, or reattach the fragment as appropriate and decide on the needed restoration.

If a tooth fragment is present, keep it in a suitable liquid (such as milk or sterile saline) and bring it to the dentist. This preserves the fragment for potential reattachment or restoration and helps ensure a better outcome. Immediate extraction is not the standard for this type of fracture, and waiting for a dental referral is important. On-field cosmetic bonding alone isn’t sufficient because the fracture may require a more durable restoration and professional evaluation for long-term integrity and function.