Dental trauma is most common among children. Dental trauma can be anything that leads to damage of the oral cavity, from knocking a tooth out to chipping a tooth and even breaking a jaw. Dental trauma can be the result of any blunt force trauma to the oral cavity.
Dental trauma might occur as the result of a violent altercation, a motor vehicle accident, a bicycle or motorcycle accident, a fall or even while playing a sport.
Because many sports are enjoyed in the fall participants therefore become more prone to experiencing dental trauma since their activity level rises.
Common Dental Traumas
Of the types of dental traumas that exist, the most common to occur during the fall (when people are generally more active and participating in physical activities) are fractured or chipped teeth. The more serious of dental trauma is when a tooth or teeth are knocked loose or worse, all the way out.
When a tooth becomes chipped your dentist will analyze the severity of the fracture to determine the means by which he wishes to repair it. He may suggest a crown, cap, sealant or even dental bonding to repair the broken tooth.
If the tooth was knocked loose he may recommend pulling the tooth and replacing it with an implant. If the tooth was cared for properly after being knocked out and no permanent nerve damage has set in, he might even attempt to reinsert the tooth into the socket.
Dental traumas are a common occurrence that generally result from automobile accidents, falls or sports. Some of the sports better known for producing frequent dental fractures are hockey, football, baseball, basketball and volleyball.
If you are looking to get out this fall and engage in physical activity, be sure to care for your teeth. Wear a mouth guard where necessary and pay attention to what you are doing. If you do sustain a dental injury, contact our office immediately.