How Oral Injury Can Lead to Tooth Loss
Tooth loss can occur for a variety of reasons. When you do lose a tooth, the team here at our Corpus Christi restorative dentistry center can help save the tooth or fashion a custom appliance that fill the gap that’s been left behind.
Physical trauma and injuries are a common cause of tooth damage and tooth loss. Let’s consider some common oral injuries and what can be done about them.
Vehicle Accidents
Whether the incident involves car accidents, motorcycle accidents, or collisions while on your bike, vehicle accidents are a common cause of oral injuries and tooth loss. This is why it’s so important to wear helmets and seat belts, both of which can prevent serious facial and head trauma.
Slips and Falls
Slips and falls are a leading cause of tooth fractures and tooth loss. This is particularly true of major falls or incidents in which a person lands face first. To avoid these kinds of injuries, try to use guardrails and handrails when provided. This is especially ideal when on stairs or when floors are slippery or slick.
Contact and Combat Sports Injuries
It doesn’t matter if you’re a professional, a student, semi-pro, or a weekend warrior–contact and combat sports can lead to major injuries. Some of the most common sports that result in tooth fractures and tooth loss include the following:
- Football
- Hockey
- Lacrosse
- Rugby
- Boxing
- Wrestling
- Mixed martial arts (MMA)
Even sports like basketball and soccer can lead to tooth loss if you’re struck by an elbow or fall face first.
The best way to prevent tooth loss from these kinds of incidents is to wear protective gear as applicable. This means wearing safety helmets, pads, face masks, and mouth guards to avoid serious harm.
Physical Altercations
If you’re assaulted or get into a fight, you might suffer from tooth loss or serious oral injury if you are struck in the face. The dental injuries and physical trauma sustained can be extremely serious depending on the nature of the attack.
Accidents While Eating
We’ve all heard horror stories about people who accidentally chip, crack, or lose a tooth while eating. This is often due to an unexpected fragment of bone or an unpopped popcorn kernel. Sometimes a foreign object may be in the food that causes oral injury. To avoid these kinds of problems, try to eat slowly and savor your food.
On-the-Job Injuries
People who work in construction or at industrial jobs run a greater risk of injuries to the body and head. In these professions, it’s possible to lose a tooth or suffer serious harm to the mouth. Wearing proper safety gear such a a hard hat and mouth protection are key to preventing tooth loss and other serious injuries.
Treatments for Tooth Loss
If you do lose a tooth or multiple teeth from serious injuries, there are plenty of restorative options to consider. Sometimes the tooth itself can be saved and placed back into position if patients act quickly and seek emergency dental care services.
Dental bridges and dentures are a traditional means of replacing missing teeth, for instance. Dental implants may be considered if the patient has sufficient jawbone density and gum tissue in place. We can discuss potential treatments with you during the consultation process.
Learn More About Restorative Dentistry Options
For more information about treating dental injuries and improving your dental health and wellness, be sure to contact our cosmetic and restorative dentistry center today. The team at our practice looks forward to your visit and discussing these matters in greater detail.