Teeth are rather durable fixtures, but they can be damaged in a variety of ways. Traumatic injuries often require immediate treatment to increase the chances of successfully saving the tooth. Endodontists have specialized skills and experience that allows them to successfully save injured teeth, preventing the need for extraction and optimizing the health of the surrounding teeth.
How Traumatic Teeth Injuries are Sustained
Traumatic teeth injuries can be sustained in many different circumstances. Sports injuries are common sources of traumatic injuries. Other situations where traumatic teeth injuries may occur include falls, fights, and auto accidents. After sustaining a traumatic tooth injury, it is important to see an endodontist. These injuries can also impact the surrounding teeth, so immediate care can protect the health of your smile.
Types of Traumatic Teeth Injuries
The type of traumatic teeth injury will ultimately dictate the appropriate treatment. In general, it is important to obtain the services of an endodontist to provide superior care for teeth. The services of an endodontist can help to prevent damage from escalating, as well as increase the chances that the tooth will be successfully saved.
Luxated (Dislodged) Teeth
Dislodged teeth occur when the tooth is knocked sideways or out of its socket. In these situations, the endodontist will reposition and stabilize the tooth. In most situations, a root canal will have to be completed to save the tooth.
Avulsed (Knocked-Out) Teeth
When a tooth becomes knocked out, it is important to obtain emergency dental care. There is still the potential for the tooth to become saved, though it depends primarily on how the situation is handled. Ensure that you handle the tooth carefully and don’t touch the root of the tooth. Keep the tooth from drying out to increase its chances of successfully being replaced. The endodontist will need to stabilize the tooth in the socket and root canal treatment is generally required in these situations.
Root Fractures
The ability to save a tooth with a root fracture will depend primarily on the location of the fracture. In some situations, the tooth can possibly be saved with stabilization and the proper root canal treatment.
Bone Injuries
Bone injuries can occur in the same manner as a broken leg or arm. However, unlike other bones in the body, facial bone injuries can’t just be covered with a cast while they heal. Methods endodontists use to help with bone injuries include inserting stabilizing plates or wiring the jaws together.
Traumatic teeth injuries need to be treated immediately to increase the chances of saving the tooth. If you have experienced a traumatic injury to your teeth, you should contact our office immediately.