Can you save my tooth? Treatment options in Conyers, GA following traumatic injuries to the mouth

Any time the pulp chamber at the center of each tooth is disturbed or damaged in some way, root canal therapy or other endodontic procedures may be necessary to preserve the tooth. Additionally, these techniques may be the only way to ease pain and other disruptive or debilitating symptoms that arise due to internal damage. Traumatic injuries to the mouth, such as blows to the face while playing sports or impact from a fall, can affect the pulp tissue. Conyers Endodontic Center Drs Desir, St. Paul, and De Veaux share their experience treating dental injuries by answering your questions. 

How will I know if I need endodontic treatment?

We won’t know for sure until after we examine your tooth. Our Conyers, GA office is equipped with the latest diagnostic imaging. We can accurately identify the nature of your injury and determine if the damage requires our intervention. Generally, the approach that we as dentists and endodontic specialists alike take to treatment plans is to assess:

• The type of injury.
• The location of the trauma.
• The extent of the tooth’s damage. 

Why would a chipped tooth require endodontic care?

Chipped teeth seem innocuous enough. Most of the time, we can correct these common dental injuries relatively non-invasively; for instance, composite resin bonding or fillings restore the tooth’s appearance and protect it from further damage. More notable chips can be “capped” with a crown covering the natural tooth, shaped to “accept” the restoration. Where we as specialists come in is to restore a severely cracked tooth. In these situations, the fracture is so severe that the pulp is exposed or damaged. 

How do you care for dislodged teeth?

A dislodged tooth remains at least partially within its socket. Depending on how you fell or the blow you received, the tooth may be pushed further into its socket or further away from the socket (sideways). Either way, the tooth will likely require endodontic treatment, such as root canal therapy. The tooth is repositioned and stabilized before we move forward with treatment to resolve pulpal damage. It should be said that this approach typically applies to permanent teeth. We’ll be happy to address options for your child. 

Can you save a knocked-out tooth? 

Yes! The tooth’s root tissue needs to remain as undisturbed as possible. Take care when holding the tooth. If possible, gingerly place the tooth back into the socket. It is a must that the tooth remains moist. If you can’t secure it back in your mouth, store it in milk or water (with a pinch of salt). The likelihood of reattaching your tooth depends on how you stored it and how quickly you can get professional care. So, moments matter in this situation.

Resorption can threaten the long-term health of your treated tooth. In response to traumatic injury, your body may “reject” the tooth. It is essential to have the tooth monitored for potential root resorption regularly.