Toothaches can have many causes; usually infection or a history of trauma. Following tooth trauma, it is essential to see a dentist for assessment. Many times stabilizing teeth, or splinting, similar to putting broken bones in a cast, can prevent problems in the future.
Cut lip or cheek
These injuries usually look worse than they are. Wounds in and around the mouth ”gape” open and often requires stitches. The good news is the healing is very fast!
Knocked out baby tooth/permanent tooth
A lost baby tooth should not be replaced. Adult teeth can sometimes be salvaged. Quick replacement is essential. Give us a call as soon as you can.
Chipped/fractured tooth
If it doesn’t hurt, most likely you are ok and it may not be an emergency. If the tooth is bleeding from the area, a root canal will be needed. A simple chip can be restored with a filling, a crown or a veneer.
Swelling
Two kinds of swelling may occur; one from trauma and one from infection. Infections get warm and moist packs to the area. Traumas, such as a head trauma, should get an ice pack: 15 minutes on and 15 minutes off. Confusing the two can cause a bigger problem. If you have a dental infection, do not ice the area and give us a call as soon as possible.
Dead Tooth
Many times following trauma, teeth will become discolored. This can be an indication for a dying or dead tooth. Proper clinical testing needs to be completed to assess whether treatment (root canal) is required. Sometimes dark or discolored teeth do not require treatment.
