Dental Issues After a Car Accident: Expert Insights

Q: Dental Issues After a Car Accident: Expert Insights

Hello： 1. <br>Since you have already established trust in Dr. <br>B and are regularly following up at the clinic, it is advisable to trust the doctor's diagnosis and treatment plan. <br>If you require a third-party professional opinion, you may seek additional consultation at the

Six years ago, I had a car accident that affected my teeth, and the doctor's assessment?

Hello Doctor, I apologize for bothering you.
Six years ago, due to a car accident, I had two upper front teeth with cracks [the situation six years ago].
I went to Clinic A for treatment, and it was determined that one tooth required root canal therapy followed by a crown for protection.
The other tooth was initially deemed fine, but halfway through the treatment, Dr.
A informed me that the other tooth also needed treatment, which shocked me.
The next day, I immediately went to Clinic B for a detailed examination.
Dr.
B examined me and said, "There’s no problem; there are just two inconspicuous cracks that can only be seen under strong light." I felt a bit awkward at that moment and didn’t know how to respond.
I then transferred the tooth that required root canal treatment to Dr.
B, who completed the treatment and placed the crown.
However, I did not proceed with treatment for the other tooth.
Over the past six years, I have continued to visit Clinic B regularly for cleanings and check-ups (which has always been my habit).
Recently, I have noticed some unusual symptoms, and I have a few questions that I hope you can clarify for me:
1.
The tooth with the crack has recently felt a bit dull, but I do not have any sensitivity.
Could this mean that the crack is worsening? (During my cleaning two weeks ago, the dentist said there was no worsening, and I also checked with a strong light and saw no abnormalities.)
2.
The crown I have is made of metal-ceramic.
How long can it last at most? (I have heard that with proper care, it can last a lifetime.)
3.
There is a significant discrepancy between the assessments of the two clinics and the two dentists.
Why might this be the case?
I appreciate your responses to these three points.
Thank you very much!

Lu Sen Zhuo, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/10/03

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry

Hello: 1.
Since you have already established trust in Dr.
B and are regularly following up at the clinic, it is advisable to trust the doctor's diagnosis and treatment plan.
If you require a third-party professional opinion, you may seek additional consultation at the endodontics department of a medical center.
2.
Prosthetic dental appliances are considered foreign materials to the body and are consumables that are used daily.
A duration of over 5 years can be regarded as a successful treatment.
3.
If you do not trust the clinic, you may seek a second or third opinion at a medical center.

Reply Date: 2023/10/03

More Info

Dear Patient,
Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding your dental health following your car accident six years ago. It’s understandable to have lingering questions about your dental condition, especially after experiencing trauma. Let’s address your queries one by one.

1. Regarding the Sensation in Your Cracked Tooth: The “dull” feeling you are experiencing in the tooth that had a crack could be due to a few factors. While it’s reassuring that your dentist did not find any signs of expansion during your last visit, it’s important to note that cracks can sometimes lead to changes in the pulp of the tooth, which may not always be immediately visible. If the tooth is feeling different, it could be a sign of pulpitis, which is inflammation of the dental pulp. I recommend monitoring the tooth closely. If the sensation worsens or if you experience any pain, sensitivity to temperature, or swelling, it would be prudent to return to your dentist for further evaluation.

2. Longevity of Metal-Ceramic Crowns: Metal-ceramic crowns, when properly maintained, can indeed last a long time—often 10 to 15 years or more. Some patients have reported crowns lasting a lifetime with good oral hygiene practices, including regular dental check-ups, brushing, and flossing. However, factors such as your bite, the amount of wear and tear on the crown, and your overall dental health can influence its lifespan. It’s essential to avoid habits that can damage crowns, such as grinding your teeth or using them to open packages.

3. Discrepancies Between Dental Assessments: It’s not uncommon for different dentists to have varying opinions on dental conditions, especially when it comes to cracks and other subtle issues. Factors contributing to these differences can include the experience and training of the dentist, the diagnostic tools they use, and their individual assessment techniques. Some dentists may be more conservative in their approach, recommending treatment for cracks that others might consider manageable. It’s always a good idea to seek a second opinion if you feel uncertain about a diagnosis or treatment plan.
In summary, while the sensation in your cracked tooth is worth monitoring, it’s a positive sign that your recent dental check-up did not reveal any significant changes. Metal-ceramic crowns can be a durable solution for your dental needs, and it’s essential to maintain good oral hygiene to maximize their lifespan. Lastly, don’t hesitate to seek further evaluations if you have concerns about the differing opinions from your dentists.

If you have any more questions or need further clarification, please feel free to ask. Your dental health is important, and it’s crucial to address any concerns you may have.

Best regards,
Doctor Q&A Teams

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