By Eric V. Thomas, DMD of Sunshine Dentistry
Immediate treatment for traumatic dental injuries can have a major influence on the prognosis of the tooth or teeth that have been damaged. In most cases, the injury may not be restricted to the teeth that are obviously affected by the direct trauma and should be assessed by a dentist immediately.
Some injuries constitute real dental emergencies while others do not. Each traumatic tooth injury has its own individual complications and treatment priorities.
A permanent tooth that has been completely knocked out can sometimes be put back into its socket or reimplanted. The best results occur if a dentist puts the tooth back in its socket within 30 minutes. Chances of successful reimplantation are unlikely after two hours. Apply pressure to the bleeding area with gauze or tissues. The knocked out tooth should immediately be put in milk or, if available, Hanks Balance Salt Solution (HBSS) while the patient is transported to the dentist.
A broken tooth or dental appliance should be assessed by a dentist as soon as possible. All pieces and fragments of the tooth or appliance should be brought with you to the dentist. The dentist will assess the broken tooth and make sure there are no pieces of tooth in the wounded area. He will then evaluate the tooth and determine the best treatment course. Tooth response to sensitivity tests such as hot and cold stimuli, color changes, damage to supporting tissue and pulp testing are important factors in the best treatment for the injured tooth.
Loose or displaced teeth should be seen by a dentist immediately to evaluate the severity of the damage. He will perform an evaluation of the tooth and determine the best treatment course. It may be necessary to stabilize the tooth, and follow up appointments will be essential.
Following any dental injury, it is essential to accurately evaluate all injured tissues and teeth prior to providing treatment. With proper knowledge, careful examination and treatment, traumatic dental injuries can be properly cared for and the smile preserved. Moreover, with proper education and the use of a custom sports mouthguard, most injuries can be prevented!
For more information, call Sunshine Dentistry at (609) 465-5415 or visit www.mysunshinedentistry.com.
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