Traumatic oral injuries can differ from different types of dental injuries that affect the teeth and the supporting tissues. Other types of traumatic oral injuries include lacerations in and around the mouth, followed by severe damage to the soft tissues. Damage to the bones of the face is also yet another type of traumatic oral injury. These injuries that cause direct physical trauma to the teeth, mouth, and face could result from a fall, accidents, assaults, or work-related incidents. 

Cracked, Chipped, or Fractured Teeth

Chipped or fractured teeth are common occurrences. It could be a hard bite on ice or trauma that occurs due to a direct blow on the face or mouth. The dentist will assess the patient to determine the extent of the damage. Based on the outcome, the dentist may suggest a filling, dental crown, a root canal procedure, and a restoration. For extensive damage, tooth extraction may be recommended by the dentist.

Dentoalveolar Injury

These are injuries that affect the teeth and the bones surrounding them. In this type of injury, a tooth may be knocked out, dislodged, or partially moved out of its sockets. Therefore, immediate medical attention is required. The dentist’s responsibility will be to reposition and stabilize the tooth or bone back to its original anatomical positions if required. In addition, routine post-op care will be required to check the tissue healing and subsequent nerve involvement or other issues requiring additional care.

Injuries to the Soft Tissue

Soft tissue injuries occur in and around the oral cavity. The injuries include lacerations within the mouth and facial lacerations. The first thing to do is clean the area gently with water before applying a cold compress. Immediate emergency care is necessary for tissue tears, puncture wounds, and lacerations in the lips, cheeks, tongue, or any other tissues in and around the oral cavity.  

Fractured or Dislocated Jaw

Jaw fracture or suspected jaw dislocation due to facial trauma requires immediate medical attention by a dentist. A fractured jaw can cause problems with eating and breathing. Therefore immediate treatment can reduce the complications and accelerate the healing process. The type of treatment for a fractured jaw depends on the extent of the injuries. If the problem is minor, only immobilization may be required. However, if multiple jawbone fractures are involved, then surgery may be recommended. If the jaw has been dislocated due to a traumatic incident, then the dentist will manipulate it into the correct position. For those who are suffering from more than one dislocation of the jaw, the person may require surgery to prevent the risk of further dislocations.