Luxation
Pronunciation: lux-AY-shun
Traumatic displacement of a tooth within its socket without complete separation from the alveolar bone.
Full Definition
Luxation describes a spectrum of traumatic injuries in which a tooth is displaced from its normal position but remains partially or fully within its socket. Subcategories include concussion (no displacement, tenderness only), subluxation (abnormal mobility), lateral luxation, intrusion, and extrusion. Editors must ensure the correct sub-type is documented, as each carries distinct treatment implications and billing codes. The term must not be conflated with avulsion, where the tooth is fully expelled. Luxation injuries are classified in dental trauma guidelines published by the IADT.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify the sub-type of luxation (lateral, intrusive, extrusive, subluxation, concussion) when editing clinical trauma records.
In Context
- "Lateral luxation of UL1 was confirmed radiographically; the tooth was repositioned and splinted." — Trauma assessment report
- "The notes recorded 'avulsion' in error; clinical findings are consistent with extrusive luxation." — Editorial correction note