What are Traumatic Injuries?
Despite continuous dental care and proper oral hygiene, there may come a time when you experience a traumatic injury to your mouth and teeth. This injury may cause the tooth to break, shift or completely fall out. It is important to receive care for an emergency as soon as possible. In some cases, it’s recommended that you seek treatment within one to two hours of experiencing the traumatic event.
Why is treatment of a Traumatic Injury needed?
If you forgo treatment of a traumatic injury, you could be putting your oral health at risk. A tooth that is broken or cracked could have an exposed pulp, which will eventually become painful and uncomfortable. A traumatic injury can even get worse over time. Something that may seem minor may become more and more problematic the longer it is left.
What are some of the most common Traumatic Injuries?
There are many injuries that can occur, and they often happen without any warning. Wearing a mouth guard when playing sports as well as at night if you grind your teeth can help to prevent traumatic injuries. Some of the most common injuries include:
- Root or crown fractures – The root or crown of a tooth has broken or cracked, exposing the inner pulp of the tooth.
- Displaced teeth – An injury has caused a tooth to be knocked deeper into the bone or completely out of place.
- A tooth has fallen out – An injury has caused a tooth to fall out completely.
What can you expect during treatment of a Traumatic Injury?
For root or crown fractures, we will examine the tooth and take x-rays to determine if the pulp is exposed. If the pulp has become exposed, we will recommend having a root canal done to remove the pulp itself. For a displaced tooth, a splint can be used to help position the tooth into correct alignment. A tooth that is missing will need a splint to help keep it in the mouth. If you have a tooth that has fallen out, be sure to place it in milk or saline until you’re able to come into the office.
If you are experiencing an endodontic traumatic injury, call us today so that we can get you in for a convenient consultation as soon as possible.