Types of Traumatic Injuries to the Teeth

18 Jan Types of Traumatic Injuries to the Teeth

There are several types of traumatic injuries to the teeth which can cause pain and can even physically alter your teeth – severe injuries such as these typically require the immediate medical attention of your expert endodontist. Here are three major types of traumatic injuries:

Tooth Fracture

A tooth fracture is a traumatic teeth injury when the hard shell of the tooth breaks or cracks. The enamel is the outer shell of a tooth that protects the inner part where the nerves and blood vessels are located. This type of injury may not cause problems or it can sometimes be a major pain to a person.

Causes:

• Biting or chewing hard objects
• A strong blow or impact from accidents or from an intense physical contact

Treatments:

• Root Canal – If there’s severe damage to the pulp
• Tooth Extraction – If the teeth cracks extend below the gum area, the tooth that’s been broken will need to be removed
• Dental Veneer – It is placed at the front side of the tooth if there’s a small chip in the surface

Tooth Avulsion

This traumatic injury is caused when the tooth is completely knocked out or displaced out of the socket. Time is very crucial; it is very important to seek immediate treatment in order to save the tooth. Remember to keep it moist by rinsing it with saline or milk.

Causes:

• Accidents
• Sports injuries (strong blow)
• Fights

Treatment:

• Replantation
• Root Canal Treatment

Dislodged Teeth

A traumatic injury to the mouth that causes the teeth to be repositioned in a different direction, either be pushed back or forced out of the socket. If this happens, seek treatment as soon as possible. Your endodontist may need to reposition and stabilize before performing any other major treatment.

Causes:

• Injuries through high-contact sports
• Other traumatic incidents like vehicle accidents
• Hard blows and falls

Treatments:

• Root canal treatment – if pulp is damaged or infected
• No treatment is necessary if pulp remains healthy