Dentists perform various tasks that help patients maintain tooth heath and appearance, such as teeth cleaning and whitening. They perform exams, fill cavities, and fit patients with bridges or other appliances. They also treat dental trauma by performing root canal therapy, tooth extractions, and other procedures. If you have suffered trauma to one or more teeth, below is what you need to know.

An Introduction to Dental Trauma

What Is It?

Dental trauma is a physical injury to the mouth, typically caused by an accident or other  mishap. It may affect the teeth, gums, soft tissue like lips or tongue, or the alveolar bone into which the teeth are rooted. Such  traumas are often a result of auto accidents, impacts to the face, trips, falls, or contact sports. Common injuries of this sort include cracked, chipped, loosened, or missing teeth, fractured jaws, and lacerated lips or gums.

What Are the Treatments?

Treatments are normally performed by an endodontist, a dentist that specializes in diagnosing and treating diseases of—and injuries to—the dental pulp. The pulp is the soft tissue inside a tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels. Endodontics involves, where possible, preserving part or all of a tooth after trauma or disease has compromised it.

Treatments include capping or crowning a damaged tooth, filling gaps with dental epoxy, and tooth extraction. In some cases, a root canal may be necessary. In this procedure, the tooth's infected pulp is replaced with an inert material. Sometimes, if all parties act within an hour or less, a tooth that has been knocked out can be replanted and saved.

If you have experienced dental trauma and need an experienced endodontist, contact Grassi & Grassi, the premier endodontists in Rochester, NY. They have served Monroe County and the surrounding areas for more than years. They specialize in endodontic surgery, tooth extractions, root canal therapy and dental impact injuries.   They are known for their compassionate care, friendly staff, relaxing environment, and successful outcomes. Learn more about them on their website or call (585) 424-1111 to discuss the causes of the dental trauma and your treatment options.