Falls are one of the leading causes of dental injuries in people of all ages. Accidents can result in damage to a tooth ranging from a chipped tooth to a tooth being knocked out of its socket. It is important to know the appropriate way to handle dental emergencies.
Common Types of Dental Injuries from Falls
- Tooth fracture: The breaking or cracking of the enamel, dentin, or root.
- Tooth avulsion: Complete displacement of the tooth from its socket due to injury.
- Subluxation: A tooth that becomes loose but remains in its socket after injury.
- Tooth intrusion: A tooth driven into the jawbone by impact.
Each case is unique, and prompt action is critical.
Immediate Steps to Take After the Injury
Stay Calm and Assess the Damage
First, look for signs of serious head and neck injury. If you have suffered a head trauma, get yourself to an emergency room immediately. After that, assess your mouth for loose or knocked-out teeth, as well as any gum or soft tissue damage.
Control the Bleeding
Apply firm, gentle pressure using clean gauze or a damp cloth. Hold it over the affected area for 10 to 15 minutes. If bleeding is severe and does not stop, seek emergency dentistry treatment right away.
Handle a Knocked-Out Tooth Correctly
A knocked-out tooth has the best chance of survival if you act quickly, ideally within 30–60 minutes of the incident. Pick up the tooth by the crown, which is the visible chewing surface. Never touch the root.
Rinse it gently with clean water, but don’t scrub it. Try to reimplant it yourself if possible. If you’re unable to do this, put the tooth in a small container of milk or saliva to keep it moist until you reach your dentist.
Manage Pain Safely
Over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen may ease discomfort. Applying an ice pack is a good way to bring down swelling. Do not place aspirin directly on your gums or tooth, as it can irritate or burn the surrounding tissues.
Contact a Dentist Right Away
A dental emergency that involves a knocked-out tooth or a severely fractured tooth needs same-day professional care. Many dental practices offer emergency appointments and walk-in availability for urgent situations.
What NOT to Do After Dental Trauma
Avoid eating or drinking anything hot, cold, or hard until you have been examined by a dentist. Do not ignore a minor chip. What appears to be a small surface crack may have hidden root damage beneath the gum line that only a dental X-ray can detect. Also, refrain from using the injured tooth to chew food before receiving treatment.
Conclusion
Trauma from the fall needs urgent attention to avoid additional harm to your teeth. Early intervention will lead to better results and decrease the chances of developing any further issues, like infections or even losing a tooth. Contact Lake Elsinore Dentistry at (951) 579-1010 to schedule your appointment.