While your teeth are strong and designed to withstand harm, injuries can still happen when we least expect them. Your teeth may require emergency medical care if you experience a blow to the face due to a sports accident or car crash. However, a traumatic dental injury could even occur in your sleep if you grind your teeth. Understanding the types of traumatic dental injuries and what you should do following one can help you act quickly after an injury.
After suffering a traumatic dental injury, do not hesitate to contact a trusted oral surgeon. At Union City Oral Surgery Group, Dr. Nancy Herbst is ready to assist you with your dental needs. She has been practicing for over 25 years and uses state-of-the-art technology to diagnose and treat her patients. When you choose us, you can have peace of mind that your oral health is in caring and capable hands.
Common Types of Traumatic Dental Injuries
After experiencing dental trauma, it is essential to recognize your injury. A few common types of traumatic dental injuries that require medical attention include the following:
Luxated Teeth
If you experience significant oral trauma, one or more of your teeth may be struck loose. This is known as luxation. Often, a tooth may not be knocked completely free after an injury. If your tooth feels tender, loose, or you experience a metallic taste in your mouth, your tooth may be luxated. If you suspect you have a luxated tooth, it is essential to seek medical treatment as soon as possible.
Avulsed Teeth
An avulsed or knocked out tooth often occurs due to sports injuries and violence. Wearing a mouthguard while playing basketball and other sports can help reduce the risk of severe dental injuries like knocked-out teeth. If your tooth has been knocked out, immediately rinse it with water or milk and place it back into the socket. If you seek medical care as soon as possible after your injury, your dentist may be able to save your tooth. Typically, a person with an avulsed tooth should seek treatment within one hour of their injury.
Chipped or Fractured Teeth
A tooth can become chipped or fractured as a result of an injury or from teeth grinding or decay. A shallow chip fracture may be treated with a crown or bridge. However, if the pulp of your tooth is exposed, a root canal may be required. An experienced dentist can evaluate your injury and determine the best treatment plan for you and your tooth.
Intruded Teeth
While teeth may become knocked loose due to an injury, they may also be knocked further into the jaw. This phenomenon is known as tooth intrusion. Intruded teeth are particularly common in children. The bones holding children’s baby teeth in their sockets are weaker than the bones in adults. An intruded tooth may cause permanent root or bone damage if not treated promptly by a highly-qualified oral surgeon.
Experienced Oral Surgeons Near Union City
If you suspect you have suffered a traumatic dental injury, do not hesitate to contact a seasoned oral surgeon. At Union City Oral Surgery Group, we are committed to providing the highest level of care to each of our patients as we address their unique dental needs. Dr. Nancy Herbst dedicates herself to being there for her patients before, during, and after all oral and maxillofacial procedures. Our compassionate and innovative approach can help you recover from your dental trauma and return to everyday life. To learn more and schedule an appointment, call our office at (201) 601-9262 or complete our contact form today.
