Traumatic Dental Injuries While most traumatic dental injuries occur in children and teenagers, people of all ages can be affected, usually as a result of sports mishaps, automobile accidents, or bad falls. If you’ve experienced a traumatic dental injury it is important to visit your endodontist in order to determine any necessary treatment. Any dental injury, even if apparently mild, requires examination by a dentist or an endodontist immediately. Sometimes, neighboring teeth suffer an additional, unnoticed injury that will only be detected by a thorough dental exam. Fractured or Chipped tooth Rinse the mouth with warm water to clean the area and control any bleeding. Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. A dentist will assess the severity of the fracture. Minor fractures may be treated with fillings or bonding, while more severe fractures could require root canal therapy or extraction. Knocked-Out Tooth (Avulsion) Immediate Action: Find the tooth and handle it carefully by the crown (the part you chew with), not the root. If possible, reinsert the tooth into its socket, holding it in place with gentle pressure. If reinsertion isn’t possible, keep the tooth moist. Place it in milk, saline, or between your cheek and gum. If nothing else is available, use water. Seek professional help: Visit a dentist or endodontist immediately (preferably within 30 minutes to an hour). Time is critical for the tooth’s survival and potential reimplantation. Abscess or Infection An abscess can cause swelling, pain, and fever. Rinse with warm saltwater to help reduce discomfort and prevent further spread. A dentist will drain the abscess, perform a root canal or extraction, and possibly prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection. Luxation Injuries Luxation refers tohhhq the displacement of a tooth within its socket. This can be subcategorized into: Intrusive luxation: The tooth is pushed into the socket. Extrusive luxation: The tooth is partially pulled out of the socket. Lateral luxation: The tooth is displaced sideways within the socket. All forms of luxation require immediate dental care, often including repositioning and stabilization. Pulpal Necrosis Pulpal necrosis refers to the death of the tooth pulp (nerve and blood vessels), which can occur after trauma if the tooth’s blood supply is disrupted. This may necessitate a root canal or extraction. Concussion (Dental Trauma) A concussion in dental trauma refers to a type of injury where the tooth is not displaced but is loosened or bruised within its socket. The tooth might be sensitive, but there are usually no visible fractures. Treatment may involve monitoring the tooth and managing pain. It’s important to have any dental injury evaluated by a professional as soon as possible to avoid complications. Book your appointment to us at Clear Dental Clinic today to ensure prompt care and protect your oral health! Or Call us at (02) 9456 6557 Our 9 locations across Sydney: Sydney City | Parramatta | Rouse Hill | Castle Hill | Chatswood | Wentworth Point | Berowra Heights | Toronto | Minchinbury
