Traumatic Dental Injuries
We highly recommend a timely and thorough dental examination by your Dentist or Endodontist if you or your child is a victim of dental trauma due to accidents or sports injuries.
The doctor examines the affected tooth and the adjacent teeth and bone structure. The treatment recommended by the dentist will depend on the type and severity of the trauma and the age of the patient.
EXAMPLES OF DENTAL TRAUMA:
Chipped or Fractured Teeth
They may or may not need Root Canal Treatment. In most cases, if the pulp of the tooth is not exposed, a filling or crown may be placed to replace the fractured piece. However, if the tooth becomes painful or the pulp of the tooth is exposed as a result of the trauma, then a Root Canal Treatment is necessary.
Dislodged (Luxated) Teeth
Some cases of luxated teeth will require Root Canal Treatment, starting within a few days following the injury. Treatment protocol varies depending on the severity and type injury.
Knocked-Out (Avulsed) Teeth – Seek Immediate Attention!
Time is of essence in these cases. The sooner the tooth is replanted back in the socket (ideally, within 30 minutes), the better its chance of survival. Follow these steps, immediately:
- Locate the knocked-out tooth in the area of accident.
- Clean the tooth of visible debris with water, milk, or tooth-preserving solution.
- Reposition the tooth in the socket immediately.
- See your Dentist or an Endodontist as soon as possible for further stabilization and treatment.
- Root Canal Treatment is necessary in these types of injuries and should be initiated within 7-10 days after the replantation.
If you are not able to reposition the tooth, keep it in a tooth-preserving solution, milk, or in the mouth (if the patient is not too young) and see your Dentist as soon as possible.
Horizontal Root Fractures
These require stabilization with a splint for a period of time and Root Canal Treatment may or may not be necessary. The prognosis for the tooth depends on the location of the fracture.
Dental Trauma in Young Patients
Treatment of young patients with permanent immature teeth is handled differently. Research shows that the stem cells present in the pulp of young teeth can stimulate growth of the root following injuries or infection. In these young patients, modified treatment may be recommended. Your Endodontist will continue to follow up with the patient and intervene if any symptoms or unfavorable outcomes occur.