Dental Trauma
Downey, CA
 Even those of us that are incredibly careful can still suffer injuries, including dental trauma. No matter how insignificant the trauma seems at the time, it is always important to have your face and mouth examined. Sometimes, injuries and other issues can go unnoticed in the beginning but might begin to exhibit symptoms later. At Downey Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, we can diagnose different types of dental trauma and provide you with the treatment you need to restore the health and functionality of your mouth.
Cracked Teeth
Cracks can happen for many reasons. The most common causes of cracks include sports injuries and abrupt facial blows. Sometimes, cracks can happen because you bite down on something, such as a hard piece of food. Alternatively, cracks can happen because you use your teeth to try and open something. Cracks begin at the crown of the tooth and extend down. They vary in severity, but all cracks should be addressed as soon as possible.
Root Fractures
Not all dental injuries affect the crowns of your teeth. Sometimes, they can affect the roots. Depending upon the angle of the impact, the fracture might begin in the root, below the surface of the gums, and extend upward. Some cracks are completely unnoticeable until you begin to experience symptoms of an infection. Even if you do not notice any damage to your teeth when you suffer dental trauma, getting seen as soon as possible is important for detecting these types of fractures so that you can receive treatment before more significant issues develop.
Tooth Intrusion
In some instances, a tooth can be driven into the jawbone. This type of dental trauma is more common in children with primary teeth because the bone is so much softer. It can happen to some adults as well, however. This type of trauma can cause problems such as root resorption or destruction of the pulp inside of the tooth.
In some cases, the alveolar bone can begin fusing with the tooth root; an issue called ankylosis.
Tooth Avulsion
Tooth avulsion is just another term for a tooth that has been knocked out. Just because your tooth has been knocked out, though, this does not mean that you are instantly without a tooth. With the right action, and when action is taken quickly, it is possible to replant the tooth and avoid the need for an artificial replacement.
How is Dental Trauma Treated?
Treating dental trauma will depend upon the type of damage you suffer. Cracks are frequently treated with crowns. Root fractures can be treated with a root canal, which can help to prevent an infection if done soon enough. It is possible to reset a tooth affected by the intrusion. Once we have gently moved it back into position, we are then able to secure it so that the bone and periodontal ligament can heal around it to restore its stability. We can also replant teeth that have been knocked out in many cases, so long as the tooth is not severely damaged and it has been treated properly before your appointment. In cases of significant tooth damage, however, it may be necessary to extract the teeth. For teeth that are extracted or that cannot be replanted, we can provide you with a replacement.
If you have suffered dental trauma, it is important to schedule an appointment as soon as possible. We are highly experienced in diagnosing and treating a broad range of different traumatic dental injuries. For more information, and to schedule your appointment, call Downey Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at 562-459-3311 today.
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