How Long Does It Take for a Dislocated Front Tooth to Heal? - Dentistry

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The front tooth is misaligned?


Your question: Hello Dr.
Chuang, my front tooth was knocked out of alignment by a glass door.
The doctor helped me with repositioning and stabilization at that time, but it has been a month now and I still cannot bite food normally; I can only drink liquids and eat porridge.
Drinking water or encountering cold air makes it feel sensitive and soft.
The doctor advised me to continue monitoring.
Dr.
Chuang, in situations like this, how long does it typically take to return to normal?
Response from Dr.
Chuang: Dentistry, Dr.
Su-Hui Chuang suggests: Hello, I’m not sure if the stabilization device has been removed.
If it has been removed and you still feel sensitivity when drinking water or exposed to cold air, you should inform your dentist to check for any cracks or if a root canal treatment is necessary.
Dr.
Chuang: Thank you for your advice.
The dental splint on my front tooth has not been removed yet because the root has not fully healed.
My question is, how long does recovery typically take in such cases? I do indeed feel sensitivity to both hot and cold foods.

Ellie, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2011/04/06

Dr. Zhuang Suhui reply Dentistry


Hello: Since I cannot see the actual situation, I cannot determine the cause of your discomfort.
I suggest you consult with a physician who can provide an in-person evaluation or visit a medical center for further assistance.

Reply Date: 2011/04/06

More Info


When it comes to the healing process of a dislocated front tooth, several factors come into play, including the severity of the injury, the type of treatment received, and individual healing responses. In your case, since the tooth was dislocated due to trauma from a glass door and has been treated with repositioning and stabilization, it is crucial to monitor the healing process closely.

Typically, the healing time for a dislocated tooth can vary widely. For minor dislocations, the tooth may stabilize and return to normal function within a few weeks. However, in cases of more severe dislocation or trauma, it can take several months for the tooth to heal completely. Since you mentioned that it has been a month since the injury and you are still experiencing discomfort when consuming cold or hot foods, this indicates that the healing process may not be progressing as expected.

The discomfort you feel when consuming cold or hot substances could be a sign of nerve sensitivity or potential damage to the tooth's pulp. If the tooth has been stabilized with a splint (which seems to be the case since you mentioned that the dental wire has not been removed), it is essential to follow your dentist's advice and keep the splint in place until they determine that the tooth has healed sufficiently.
If you continue to experience pain or sensitivity, it is crucial to inform your dentist. They may want to conduct further examinations, such as X-rays, to check for any underlying issues, such as fractures in the tooth or damage to the surrounding bone. In some cases, if the pulp of the tooth is compromised, root canal treatment may be necessary to preserve the tooth and alleviate pain.

In summary, while some dislocated teeth can heal within a few weeks, others may take several months, especially if there are complications. It is essential to maintain open communication with your dentist and report any persistent symptoms. They will be able to provide you with the best guidance tailored to your specific situation. Regular follow-ups will ensure that any issues are addressed promptly, and your tooth can heal correctly, allowing you to return to normal eating and drinking without discomfort.

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