Clinical guidelines for treatment of impalement injuries of the oropharynx in children.

Orodental injury in children is a cause of much concern and anxiety for the patient and parent. Most pediatric dentists are well-acquainted and capable of treatment of trauma to the teeth and their supporting structures. However, the anatomical area posterior to the hard palate is less familiar to the pediatric dentist. The active toddler and young child are likely to turn first to their familiar dentist if and when they experience an impalement injury. The pediatric dentist needs to be in a position to provide proper emergency treatment and reassurance in such cases. The objectives of the present report are to describe an impalement injury in a 6-year old, review the relevant anatomy, modes of treatment, and possible sequela associated with such injuries.