Dental trauma can happen to anyone, whether it be a car accident, sports injury, or even a simple fall when you’re at home. When teeth get bumped or hit, they can crack, chip, or even get completely knocked out. In some cases, dental trauma can cause the nerve of the tooth to die, which can lead to infection, pain, and even the loss of the tooth. Fortunately, endodontic treatment, commonly known as a root canal, can save a tooth that has been affected by dental trauma.
Will I Need a Root Canal After a Traumatic Injury?
If you experience dental trauma, you may be wondering if you will need a root canal. The answer depends on the severity of the injury and the extent of the damage to the tooth. If the nerve of the tooth is still alive and healthy, you may not need a root canal. However, if the nerve has been damaged or dies as a result of the trauma, a root canal may be necessary to save the tooth. Sometimes it can take weeks, months, or even years to tell if a tooth was seriously traumatized. Other times, the signs are obvious. The most important thing to do is see our San Diego dentist for an exam and X-ray of the tooth root.
Symptoms of Nerve Death and Trauma in a Tooth
After traumatic injuries to your mouth or face, it’s important to look out for signs of nerve death in the involved tooth or teeth. Symptoms may include pain, sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, discoloration, and swelling. In some cases, the tooth may feel loose or change position. Discoloration typically begins quite gradually and becomes more prominent over time. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to see a dental professional as soon as possible to determine the extent of the damage and the necessary course of treatment.
Average Tooth Trauma Healing Time if a Root Canal Isn’t Needed
If a root canal is not needed, the healing time for dental trauma can vary depending on the extent of the damage. If the ligaments around the tooth are strained because of the injury, your tooth might feel sore for several days. If physical damage is present, such as a chip or crack, we can usually repair it in one to two visits.
Endodontic Treatment for Dental Trauma: What to Expect
If a root canal is necessary, it’s usually because the nerve inside the tooth is dying or becomes detached during your injury. First, our San Diego dentist will numb your tooth, create a small opening, and remove the nerve tissues from inside the long narrow chamber. Next, a filling material will be placed in the tooth to seal it off from the inside out. Finally, a crown may be placed over the tooth to protect it for long-term purposes since non-vital teeth tend to wear down prematurely.
At Downtown Dental Specialty in San Diego, we use the latest technology and techniques to provide safe and effective endodontic treatment for situations involving dental trauma. Our experienced providers will work with you to develop a treatment plan that meets your individual needs and helps to save your tooth.
Will I Need a Crown After Endodontic Treatment (San Diego)?
After endodontic treatment, it’s common to need a crown over the affected tooth. Whenever a nerve is removed during a root canal, the tooth is no longer living and becomes more brittle. When that’s the case, it can wear down a bit more quickly than the teeth around it. A crown can help to protect it from further damage and restore its appearance and function.
Reserve a Dental Exam If you’ve experienced a traumatic injury that hurt your tooth or left your mouth feeling bruised, it’s important to seek treatment as soon as possible to prevent potential tooth loss. At Downtown Dental Specialty in San Diego, we offer comprehensive dental exams and endodontic treatment to help save damaged teeth and restore your oral wellness. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
