Injuries to Permanent Teeth

Whether its a toddler falling in the bathtub or a middle school basketball player getting elbowed, the mouth seems to be a magnet for trauma. Accident prevention by careful adult supervision is very helpful but no matter how hard we try, as soon as we turn our backs, our child slips and falls into the coffee table and hits his/her mouth. When an injury occurs in the mouth and is sufficient enough to cause concern, it is always best to call your dentist for advice. Even after hours, your dentist can provide valuable information and help make decisions in the best interest of your child. One tip, please call your dentist shortly after the incident as some injuries require immediate attention.

Injuries to permanent teeth are frequently seen in our practice. They occur from all sorts of situations like falling off a skateboard or bike, slipping with roller shoes, and most sports. Any injury to a permanent tooth from a direct blow or a chip should be evaluated by your dentist. While many situations do not require immediate attention, the dentist should be consulted to help make that decision.

The most common injury occurs when part of a tooth is chipped off. Permanent teeth seem to be more sensitive then primary teeth after an injury. Some chips may require a protective temporary bonded coating over the exposed area to help reduce sensitivity and protect the nerve. Large chips, where the nerve is exposed, will require more extensive treatment of the nerve and later a cosmetic filling or bonding.

Injuries from traumatic blows where a tooth may be mobile but in position are also important to observe. Any pain, swelling or change in the color of a tooth should be immediately reported to the dentist. Also, any injury to a tooth that is pushed out of position should be seen by your dentist.

The best way for parents to prevent accidents to permanent teeth in by the use of mouth guards. While more sports such as hockey, lacrosse and football require their use, others don't seem to emphasize their importance. While baseball players wear helmets, most accidents occur in the field from missed balls, for example, misjudged fly balls or a ball taking a "bad hop". Use of a well fitting mouth guard may be helpful in these situations. Mouth guards can be purchased at most sporting good stores and many dental offices. There are many other play and sporting activities where the use of a simple mouth guard may not be "cool", but offers protection from injury. We insist that our children sit in a car seat, then seat belts, wear helmets when they bike or skate. Perhaps we should also evaluate the use of mouth guards in our children more frequently in situations where dental injury is more prevalent.