General Information
Most people at some time during childhood have accidents which injure their teeth. These accidents can range from a slightly cut lip and barely chipped tooth to total loss of teeth and breaking of facial bones. When a person is hit in the face, the upper front teeth and/or the nose are usually the first struetimes to be injured.
If you or your child receive an injury to the face, go to your dentist as soon as possible. Before going, however, check around the area of the accident for any teeth that may have been totally knocked from their sockets. If any are found, place them in a container of milk or in the patients cheek and get to a dentist as soon as possible.
The method of repairing fractured teeth depends on the severity of the fracture. If the fracture involves the outer layer (enamel) only, the tooth is usually treated by smoothing the rough enamel edges. If the second layer (dentin) is involved, the dentin slaould be covered by a protective filling or cap. If the nerve (pulp) is exposed, root canal therapy is usually required to prevent abscess formation.
The root of the tooth can also fracture as a result of injury. Most root fractures are difficult to treat. Extraction is usually necesary, depending on what section of the root is is involved. The closer the horizontal fracture line is to the end of the root, the better the chance of survival of the tooth. Vertical fractures of teeth nearly always result in extraction. Horizontal root fractures that are close to the apex (end of the root) require root canal therapy.
The most important thing to remember after a facial or dental accident is to get to your dentist. If teeth have been knocked out, find them, wrap them in a moist towel, and get to your dentist in "record time."
Activities of Daily Living
There should be no restrictions in your daily activities.
Diet
Follow a soft or liquid diet for 24 hours or more. Gradually work back to your normal diet.
General Measures:
- Apply ice packs to your face close to the injured area for 10 to 20 minutes each hour for 24 hours.
- Do not rinse your month for 24 hours.
- Do not place any biting pressure on the injured area for several days.
Medication
If medicines are prescribed, take them according to the instructions on the prescription.
NOTIFY YOUR DENTIST IF ANY OF THE FOLLOWING OCCURS:
- Swelling occurs around any of the treated teeth.
- Sharp pain (requiring strong medication) is felt on the third or fourth day after the accident.