Bounce back quickly from traumatic dental injuries with expert emergency care
“Trauma” is clinically defined as a physical injury to living/natural tissue caused by external or extrinsic agents. “Dental,” of course, refers to our teeth and the practice of dentistry. So, traumatic dental injuries can mean a lot of things, but they are all united in the damage to natural tissues caused by forces outside of the mouth. They are generally not associated with the chronic internal or intrinsic damage that arises from untreated oral conditions, such as tooth decay and gum disease.
At Wes Park Family Dentistry, we can “do it all” from our well-appointed office in Perry, Georgia. Led by Dr Bryce Westmoreland, our team is equipped to resolve tooth damage caused by traumatic injuries and damage associated with chronic conditions, including tooth decay and periodontal disease.
What are some examples of traumatic injuries?
We have treated many acute injuries or types of trauma. They include fractures caused by falls, car accidents, or contact with balls and other sports equipment. We can even preserve teeth that are either partially or fully dislodged (avulsed) from the mouth due to blows to the face during sports or other activities.
How is it possible to treat a knocked-out tooth?
One key to successfully reinserting and reimplanting the tooth is “timing.” It is essential to contact us right away so Dr. Westmoreland can immediately attempt to reroot it. We have the greatest chance of successfully saving the tooth if it can be treated within 30 minutes of the injury occurring.
What can I do when my tooth is knocked out?
If it doesn’t pose a swallowing risk, try to place the tooth back in its socket. Be gentle. You should avoid disturbing the tissues attached to the tooth. Instead, store the tooth in a preservative solution, which can be purchased at a drugstore or in milk. Milk has both antimicrobial properties and nutrients that help to keep delicate cells viable.
What if my tooth is cracked?
Teeth that are broken or fractured may be preserved when treated appropriately before the effects of the fracture progress. Generally, any injury that does not affect the innermost pulp tissue may be treated with less extensive therapies; for instance, a fractured tooth may be held together with a dental restoration like a crown. For injured teeth with damage (inflammation or infection) to the pulp, root canal therapy or other endodontic procedures may help you avoid extraction and tooth loss.
How do you treat teeth with traumatic damage that can’t be repaired?
There are many options! Wes Park Family Dentistry will discuss ways to replace the lost tooth promptly. Our team in Perry, Georgia, has the in-house expertise and capabilities to provide state-of-the-art tooth replacement with dental implants. It is essential to fill these gaps before the bone in your jaw begins to retreat, which can worsen the cosmetic and functional effects of tooth loss. By replacing teeth, we not only restore the appearance of your smile but also keep the supportive bone in the jaw strong and healthy.
When the worst happens, know that emergency care is a call away at (478) 488-3561.
Bryce Westmoreland, DMD
Dr. Bryce Westmoreland earned his BSA in Biological Science with Honors from the University of Georgia and completed his DMD at the Dental College of Georgia, where he also served as Chief Resident during his General Practice Residency. He specializes in implant placement surgeries and restorations and has furthered his expertise through the AAID MAXI course. He and his team are known for their friendly, gentle, and empathetic care, creating a welcoming atmosphere where patients receive the highest quality treatments.
He is a member of the American Dental Association, Georgia Dental Association, American Academy of Implant Dentistry, and a Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists.