Tooth and jaw injuries after a car crash: why timing counts
An emergency dentist and an oral surgeon on care that can't wait
A cut lip is easy to spot. Damage to a tooth root or the jaw may be harder to see. The emergency department treats the injuries that need care right away. A dentist may still need to check your teeth and the tissue that holds them in place. An oral surgeon handles more complex jaw and face injuries. These roles can overlap, so ask who is in charge of your follow up. [1, 2]
When a permanent tooth gets knocked out
Hold the tooth by the crown, the part that sits above the gum. Don’t touch the root. If it’s dirty, rinse it gently with water, but don’t scrub it. If the person is alert and it’s safe, gently put a permanent tooth back in its socket without touching the root. If you can’t, keep the tooth moist in milk or a tooth preservation product. Get dental care right away. [1]
Never put a baby tooth back in. A child who loses a tooth still needs dental advice soon. [1]
Call emergency services for heavy bleeding, trouble breathing or swallowing, or a serious face injury. Don’t put a loose tooth in the mouth of someone who might choke or can’t protect their airway. [1, 2]
Check how your teeth meet
Tell the doctor or dentist if your teeth don’t fit together the way they used to. Also mention if it’s hard to open your mouth, your jaw shifts or a tooth feels loose. A broken or dislocated jaw can affect speaking, eating and breathing. It needs to be examined quickly. Never try to force the jaw back into place. [2]
Even a small chip can hide a deeper injury. Save any broken pieces if you can do it safely. Ask the dentist whether you need an exam and dental imaging. Note which teeth hurt when you bite or eat something hot or cold. Snap a photo if it’s easy, but don’t hold up care to document the damage. [1]
Go home with a full plan
Ask how to eat, keep the area clean and manage pain until your next visit. Find out which changes should prompt an earlier call. Examples include more swelling, fever, worse pain or a loose tooth. If the emergency visit didn’t include a dental exam, set one up. Keep the dental report and images with your other crash records. [1, 2]
- Did someone check my teeth, roots, bite and jaw?
- Who should I see next, and how soon?
- What can I safely eat, and how should I clean my mouth?
Save the tooth or get your bite checked now
Sources and further reading
The advice here is general education from emergency dentistry and oral surgery experts. Trouble breathing, heavy bleeding or a possible broken jaw needs emergency care. Any tooth injury needs a prompt dental visit.
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