Do you know what to do in the event of a dental emergency? Unfortunately, a set of otherwise healthy teeth can be disrupted by physical trauma. If an injury has left you with a tooth that is cracked, broken, loosened, or knocked out, you should see your dentist as soon as possible. If the damage is significant, you may need a treatment to eliminate the risk of an infection. If your injury is not severe, but you are left with visible damage that you would like to address, cosmetic dentistry can cover signs of trauma.

Addressing Your Oral Health After An Accident

If you experience dental trauma, your first concern should be with your health. A cracked tooth can be vulnerable to infection – your dentist can determine the severity of the trauma, and what treatment will be required. A crack that exposes the interior of your tooth will typically require a root canal, so infected material can be removed before it makes your recovery more complicated.

Restoring Your Appearance After A Dental Injury

If your appearance has been negatively impacted by dental trauma, there are procedures available to help. Dental bonding and contouring are popular methods for restoring a tooth’s appearance after damage. Contouring can eliminate chips in your tooth, while bonding can cover up cracks, and address discoloration from trauma. Unfortunately, your tooth may not be salvageable after an accident. If you have lost a tooth, a dental bridge can replace it. A dental bridge is a prosthetic that is held firmly in place thanks to crowns on each of the neighboring teeth, which essentially lock it into place.