Dental trauma can vary in severity depending on age and circumstances:
In children: Often results in slit lips or early loss of baby teeth (primary dentition).
In adults: Can range from fractured teeth needing fillings to jaw fractures requiring major reconstructive surgery.
Some adults are at higher risk, such as those with uncontrolled epilepsy or engaging in competitive sports.
Preventing Dental Trauma
To reduce the risk of dental trauma:
For Epilepsy Patients: Ensure regular medical checks to prevent seizures and inspect the mouth for trauma after each episode.
During Sports: Wear a mouthguard, either mould-to-fit options from sports shops or custom-made by a dental professional, to protect teeth and soft tissues.
For Those with Challenging Behaviour or Frequent Falls: Have a procedure in place for dental first aid.
First Aid for Dental Trauma
Immediate actions to take in case of dental trauma:
Loose or Broken Teeth: If a tooth is loose, do not wiggle it. Keep it in place and see a dentist immediately without rinsing or cleaning it.
Lost Crown, Inlay, or Bridge: Keep it clean and take it to the dentist, who may reattach it or plan a replacement.
Nerve Damage: If the tooth nerve is damaged, it may require extraction or root canal treatment. This may lead to discolouration and future treatment needs.
Summary of First Aid Steps
Remove loose dental pieces only if they pose a choking risk.
Visit the dentist as soon as possible.
Apply a cold compress on the outside of the mouth to reduce swelling.