Motorcycle Accident Leads to Gum Injury and Dental Treatment

Gum tissue excision due to injury from a motorcycle accident?

Hello Doctor, I had an accident in mid-August due to slippery roads and fell onto a large manhole cover.
After falling, I quickly got my motorcycle upright and rode home.
However, when I got home, I noticed that the gum of one of my upper front teeth had split.
The next day, I urgently went to a nearby dental clinic for a procedure to remove the split gum (which was about 2-4 mm).
During the examination, it was also discovered that the tooth had a crack.
After the dentist's assessment, it was determined that I could undergo root canal treatment followed by a crown for restoration.
I have now completed the root canal treatment, and the tooth has been saved successfully, but the dentist advised me to wait for the gum to stabilize before preparing for the crown.
I would like to ask the doctor the following questions:
1.
Currently, the gums of my two front teeth are uneven, one higher and one lower.
Will this affect my future dental health and development?
2.
Is the front tooth with the gum removal at a higher risk of falling out?
3.
After the gum removal, will it heal and grow back?
4.
How long does it typically take for the gum to recover after such an impact? (My dentist mentioned 2-3 months.)
5.
Since I have completed the root canal treatment and the tooth is gradually stabilizing, is there still a risk involved?
These are my questions, and I hope the doctor can provide detailed answers.
I am really afraid of losing my teeth! Thank you, Doctor!

Lu Sen Zhuo, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/09/07

Dr. Zhu Guanyu reply Dentistry

Hello, based solely on your description, it is difficult to provide clear answers to these four questions.
I recommend consulting a dentist who has more information about your oral condition.
However, in brief: 1.
The impact on quality of life after undergoing crown lengthening is minimal.
2.
A successful crown lengthening procedure, provided there is sufficient biological width and good oral hygiene practices, should not lead to postoperative periodontal issues.
3.
There are various types of periodontal epithelial tissues, and their regeneration is not easy.
As for your concern about the gums returning to the desired position, that is even more challenging.
4.
The time required for periodontal tissue to heal after injury from external forces is related to the magnitude of the force, as well as the extent and severity of the damage.
A timeframe of 2-3 months should be reasonable.
Thank you for your inquiry, and I wish you a speedy recovery! Sincerely, Dr.
Kuan-Yu Chu, Chief of Dentistry, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2018/09/07

More Info

It sounds like you've been through quite an ordeal following your motorcycle accident, and it's understandable to have concerns about your dental health and recovery. Let's address your questions one by one, providing clarity and guidance based on current dental practices and knowledge.

1. Impact of Uneven Gums on Daily Life: Having one gum higher than the other can affect the aesthetics of your smile, which may impact your self-esteem. However, it typically does not affect functionality unless there is significant gum disease or bone loss. If the unevenness is due to the injury, it may be possible to correct this through periodontal treatment or cosmetic procedures in the future.

2. Risk of Tooth Loss After Gum Surgery: The tooth that underwent gum surgery is not necessarily at a higher risk of falling out, provided that the underlying structures (like the bone and periodontal ligaments) are healthy. After a gum surgery, the tooth may be more sensitive, but with proper care and follow-up, it can remain stable. Regular dental check-ups are crucial to monitor the health of the tooth and surrounding gums.

3. Healing of Cut Gums: After gum surgery, the gums can heal and regenerate to some extent. The healing process can take several weeks, and while the initial cut may close, the gum tissue may not return to its original state. However, with good oral hygiene and possibly the use of specific dental products, you can promote healing and maintain gum health.

4. Recovery Time for the Jawbone: The recovery time for the jawbone and surrounding tissues after trauma can vary. Generally, it can take anywhere from 2 to 3 months for the bone and gums to stabilize after an injury. During this time, it's essential to follow your dentist's advice, avoid hard foods, and maintain excellent oral hygiene to support healing.

5. Risk of Tooth Mobility Post-Root Canal Treatment: It's a positive sign that your tooth is becoming less mobile after the root canal treatment. However, some degree of mobility can be normal immediately following treatment, especially if there was significant trauma. As the surrounding tissues heal, the stability of the tooth should improve. If you notice any increase in mobility or pain, it's crucial to return to your dentist for evaluation.

In addition to addressing your specific questions, here are some general recommendations for your recovery:
- Maintain Oral Hygiene: Continue to brush and floss gently around the affected areas. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush can help minimize irritation to the gums.

- Follow-Up Appointments: Keep all scheduled follow-up appointments with your dentist to monitor healing and address any concerns promptly.

- Diet Considerations: Stick to a soft diet to avoid putting undue stress on the healing tooth and gums. Foods that are easy to chew can help prevent discomfort.

- Pain Management: If you're experiencing pain, over-the-counter pain relievers can be helpful, but consult your dentist for recommendations tailored to your situation.

In conclusion, while the aftermath of your accident may seem daunting, with proper care and attention, you can work towards a full recovery. Don't hesitate to reach out to your dental care provider with any concerns or questions as you navigate this healing process. Your dental health is crucial, and proactive management will help ensure the best possible outcome.

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