Tooth injuries (tooth trauma) include cracked or broken teeth (fractures), teeth that have been moved out of place or dislodged (luxations), and knocked-out teeth (avulsions).
A tooth injury often needs to be treated quickly to save your tooth. However, sometimes it is not possible to save a tooth after an injury. Then, the tooth may need to be removed (extracted).
CAUSES
Tooth injuries may be caused by any force strong enough to chip, break, dislodge, or knock out a tooth. This may result from:
• Sports injuries.
• Falls.
• Accidents.
• Fights.
RISK FACTORS
You may be more likely to injure a tooth if you play a contact sport without using a mouth guard.
SYMPTOMS
A tooth that is forced into the gum may appear …show more content…
• Increased sensitivity to heat and cold.
DIAGNOSIS
A tooth injury can be diagnosed with a medical history and physical exam. You may also need dental X-rays to check for injuries to the root of the tooth.
TREATMENT
Treatment depends on the type of injury you have and how bad it is. Treatment may need to be done quickly to save your tooth. Possible treatments include:
• Replacing a tooth fragment with a filling, cap, or hard, protective cover (crown). This may be an option for a chip or fracture that does not involve the inside of your tooth (pulp).
• Having a procedure to repair the inside of the tooth (root canal) and then having a crown placed on top. This may be done to treat a tooth fracture that involves the pulp.
• Repositioning a dislodged tooth, followed by a root canal. The root canal usually needs to be done within a few days of the injury.
• Replacing a knocked-out tooth in the socket, if possible, followed by a root canal a few weeks later.
• Tooth extraction for a fracture that extends below your gum line or splits your tooth completely.
HOME CARE INSTRUCTIONS
• Take medicines only as directed by your dental or health care