Dental trauma usually occurs due to accidents and can have quite serious oral consequences. Most permanent teeth can be saved with appropriate knowledge of what precautions to take after a blow to the mouth.
It is important not to assume anything as the injury could lead to cracked, chipped or loosened teeth in ways not visible to the naked eye. The key thing is to have teeth checked by a dentist as quickly as possible, ideally within 30 minutes to prevent long-term damage.
The diagram above shows a few simple steps that can be followed prior to reaching the dentist.
Important information to note:
- If a baby tooth is completely knocked out of the socket (avulsed) do NOT try and replant it.
- If an adult tooth is completely knocked out of the socket (avulsed) it should be replanted or transported in saliva/saline/milk/Hanks’ balanced salt solution.
- Teeth should NOT be handled by the root as it can damage root cells.
- Teeth should NOT be stored in water or ice as it can damage root cells.
