Traumatic Injuries

Treatment and proper care for dental traumatic injuries vary depending on the type of injury

Intruded Teeth or “pushed-in teeth”
Injuries to the mouth can cause teeth to be pushed back into the sockets. Your endodontist may reposition, stabilize and add a small bracing structure, a splint, to decrease any mobility. Root canal treatment is usually started within a few weeks after the injury occurred. Usually the tooth is treated with a medication that is placed within the tooth.

Avulsed Teeth or “knocked-out teeth”
If a tooth is knocked completely out, time is of the essence, and it is important that you are treated immediately. A tooth should not be outside the mouth longer than one hour. The tooth should be rinsed off gently with water. Never scrub the tooth or use any soap or other cleaning agent. If possible, put the tooth back into the socket. A tooth can be saved if it remains moist. The length of time the tooth is out of the mouth and the way the tooth is stored will determine the treatment options that are available. You can even store the tooth in milk or a glass of water (add a pinch of salt). Dr. Baker may start root canal treatment depending upon the stage of root development. Call your dentist immediately.