Dental Trauma is the injury caused to teeth, lips, gums, tongue, and jawbones. Soft Tissue injuries to the mouth are very painful and require prompt treatment. The management of the Dental Traumatic Injury includes the advice regarding the care of the injured tooth/teeth for optimal healing and prevention from dangerous activities that can further cause damage to the already damaged part. However, dental traumatic injuries have the following categories:

• Tooth fractures, including root fracture, and enamel fracture
• Chipped Tooth
• Jaw Fracture
• Lacerations of the lips
• Lacerations of the gums
• Fracture of the tooth socket wall
• Tooth jammed into socket
• Tooth knocked loose

What are the causes of a Dental Traumatic Injury?

In most cases, dental injuries are caused due to an accident including falls, vehicle collisions, or sports injuries. The other situation that can lead to a dental traumatic injury is due to being involved in a violent incident, such as fighting or physical abuse.

What are the treatment criteria for Dental Traumatic Injury?

The treatment for dental traumatic injury depends upon the nature and severity of the trauma. However, injuries to the mouth and teeth should be examined by a dentist especially if a tooth or teeth has/have been broken, became loose, fractured, and visibly damaged. A dental exam will be required to determine the complexity of the damage.
Following are the treatment options for Dental Traumatic Injury:

• In case of a fractured or chipped tooth, a tooth-colored filling will be recommended to replace the lost part of the tooth. But, if a significant part of the crown has been damaged or lost, an artificial cap or crown may be suggested
• A root canal might be suggested if the pulp has been exposed
• Injuries to the back teeth, including fractured cusps, may require a root canal and full-coverage crown.
• Serious injuries like split teeth may require the tooth to be removed completely

Children under the age of 12 might not need a root canal as their teeth are still in the developing age and might heal on their own. However, the doctor will monitor them carefully to see if any additional treatment is required

If your teeth have been knocked out, they may be replanted if you act spontaneously and see your dentist or an endodontist immediately in 30-40 minutes. If you keep a track of time, there is a good chance that you will save your tooth/teeth. If the tooth can be found, handle it carefully by the crown and do not touch the root. The dentist will place it back in its socket and a stabilizing splint will be placed for a few weeks, after which you may require root canal treatment

At Saudi German Hospital, we have a dedicated team of dentists and orthodontics who provide a more focused and detailed approach for the assessment and treatment of patients suffering from complex dental traumatic injuries. Our vision is to transform the lives of people with the best and comprehensive medical health.