Recovering from a Dental Injury: When to See a Dentist for Tooth Trauma

Q: Recovering from a Dental Injury: When to See a Dentist for Tooth Trauma

Hello Fanny： After an injury to the front teeth, it is possible to damage the periodontal ligament and gums, and even cause root fracture. <br>However, if the front teeth are not loose after some time but you are unable to eat, it indicates that the periodontal ligament has not f

Front tooth impact?

I have a dental implant for my front tooth (from several years ago).
Recently, I fell and injured it, resulting in bruising of the gums and the root of the front tooth.
Currently, the front tooth is not loose, but I am unable to bite down on anything, although the pain has decreased significantly.
How long does it typically take for a bruised tooth root to heal? Should I see a dentist now, or should I wait until the bruising resolves before visiting the dentist? Thank you for your response.

fanny, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/03/02

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry

Hello Fanny: After an injury to the front teeth, it is possible to damage the periodontal ligament and gums, and even cause root fracture.
However, if the front teeth are not loose after some time but you are unable to eat, it indicates that the periodontal ligament has not fully recovered.
It is recommended to return for follow-up observation.
Dr.
Tseng Guang-Hui, Department of Dentistry, Nantou Hospital.

Reply Date: 2021/03/02

More Info

When it comes to recovering from a dental injury, especially one involving trauma to the teeth and gums, it is crucial to understand the nature of the injury and the appropriate steps to take for recovery. In your case, you mentioned that your front tooth is a prosthetic (false tooth) and that you recently experienced trauma due to a fall, resulting in bruising of the gums and the root of the tooth. Although your tooth is not loose and the pain has diminished, you are still unable to bite down properly.

First and foremost, it is important to recognize that even if the tooth appears stable and the pain has lessened, any trauma to the dental structures can have underlying implications that may not be immediately apparent. The bruising of the gums and the root can indicate damage to the periodontal tissues or even the bone surrounding the tooth. This can lead to complications such as infection, delayed healing, or even loss of the tooth if not properly addressed.

In general, the recovery period for bruising of the gums and tooth roots can vary significantly depending on the severity of the injury. Minor bruising may resolve within a few days to a week, while more significant trauma could take several weeks to heal completely. During this time, it is essential to monitor your symptoms closely. If you experience increased pain, swelling, or any signs of infection (such as pus or fever), it is imperative to seek dental care immediately.

Given your situation, it is advisable to see a dentist sooner rather than later. A dental professional can perform a thorough examination, possibly including X-rays, to assess the extent of the injury and determine if there is any damage to the underlying structures. They can also provide guidance on pain management and any necessary treatments to facilitate healing. Waiting until the bruising resolves on its own may lead to complications that could have been prevented with timely intervention.

In addition, if you are experiencing difficulty biting down, this could indicate that the alignment of your prosthetic tooth has been affected or that there is underlying trauma to the supporting structures. A dentist can evaluate the fit and function of your prosthetic tooth and make any necessary adjustments to ensure that you can bite and chew comfortably.

In conclusion, while it may be tempting to wait for the bruising to heal before seeking dental care, it is in your best interest to consult with a dentist as soon as possible. They can provide a comprehensive evaluation and ensure that your dental health is not compromised. Early intervention can lead to better outcomes and a smoother recovery process. Remember, your oral health is closely linked to your overall well-being, and addressing dental injuries promptly is key to maintaining both.

Similar Q&A

Dealing with Dental Trauma: Treatment Options After Tooth Loss

Dr. Tseng, on the 6th of last month, during work hours, I was struck from behind by a colleague operating a stand-up forklift, resulting in the loss of my right central incisor and canine. My left central incisor and right lateral incisor are loose, and my gums have been severely...

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
Due to trauma resulting in the loss of a front tooth, if the tooth is reinserted immediately, there is a chance for it to heal. However, there is also a possibility of root resorption, which may ultimately lead to the loss of the tooth. During the period of reattachment, it is es...

Recovering from a Tooth Injury: What to Expect After a Dental Trauma

On December 30th, I accidentally missed a step while going up the stairs and fell, hitting my upper left front tooth. That same day, I went to see a dentist who took X-rays. At that time, the dentist said there was slight mobility but nothing serious, and advised me to observe it...

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
In the above situation, it may cause slight mobility of the teeth and damage to the dental nerves. However, if the condition is not severe, the mobility and dental nerves may potentially recover. There is also a possibility that it could progress to pulpitis or pulp necrosis. It ...

Should You See a Dentist Immediately After a Dental Injury?

Hello, Dr. Tseng! My mother was involved in a car accident on January 8, 2007. Due to the impact, she suffered four broken upper front teeth, two of which were pushed into the gums. It has been over 20 days since the incident, and she still experiences bleeding at night. Upon clo...

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
A collision resulted in a fractured upper incisor, with two teeth being intruded into the gums or alveolar bone due to the impact force. This condition is referred to as intrusion. In younger children or adolescents, there is a possibility that the intruded teeth may gradually er...

Dealing with Dental Trauma: Should You Get a Root Canal After an Accident?

Hello, doctor. A few days ago, I was in a car accident and accidentally hit my front tooth. It didn't break, but it is a bit crooked and hurts when I touch it, making it difficult to bite down on things. I went to see a dentist, who took X-rays but didn't say much, only...

Dr. Huang Zhicheng reply Dentistry
Hello, dental trauma can lead to fractures or damage to the dental pulp. Based on your description, it is likely that the pulp damage has caused pulpitis, resulting in pain. Root canal treatment (commonly referred to as "nerve extraction") is a treatment plan chosen to ...