Personal Injury Lawyer
Most accident victims are in such shock in the wake of an accident that they have difficulty knowing the appropriate way to respond at the accident scene. Sustaining injuries can be overwhelming enough, to find that you have lost a tooth may leave you unsure of what to do next. An accident can happen at any time, leaving victims in significant pain. Much of the time, the focus turns to larger, more substantial injuries such as: head injuries, bone fractures, neck and back injuries, soft tissue injuries. However, experiencing a dental injury can be problematic when left untreated. If you have lost a tooth in an accident, take these steps to ensure that you receive the care you need:
Step 1: Act Quickly
If you have lost a tooth in an accident, taking action as quickly as possible may save your tooth. According to the American Association of Endodontics, if you are able to get to a dentist within 30 minutes, you may be able to save your tooth. However, it’s important to note that you may be able to save the tooth even if it’s been outside of your mouth for longer than an hour.
Step 2: Locate the Tooth
If you are able to find the tooth, make sure that you are careful with how you handle it. You never want to pick the tooth up by the root. Always pick the tooth up by the crown. Use water to carefully rinse the tooth. Although it may be tempting, avoid scrubbing the tooth.
Step 3: Refrain from Wrapping the Tooth
Once you have located the tooth, it may be tempting to wrap it in something. Do not do this. Wrapping the tooth in paper or tissue may cause damage to the root of the tooth.
Step 4: Put the Tooth Back in Your Mouth
Although this may seem odd, putting the tooth back in the socket may be helpful to your dentist. If you are able, place the tooth into the socket and apply slight pressure to push it back into place.
Step 5: Keep the Tooth Wet
If for some reason you are unable to place the tooth back into your socket, there a few ways you should keep the tooth moist. It’s important that you not put the tooth into water, this may cause damage to the cells. Options can include, putting the tooth in a cup of milk, or placing the tooth on the inside of your cheek.
Considering Legal Action?
If you were injured in an accident, and believe another person’s negligent behavior is to blame, it may be a good idea to consult with a lawyer. Dental issues from an accident can be severe. Chances are, if the accident was so significant that you lost teeth, you likely sustained other injuries as well. Working with a lawyer may be key to helping you obtain the compensation you may be entitled to. Seeking care from a dentist, not only is a way of obtaining the medical care that you need, but can also help to prove the injuries you have experienced.
If you have lost a tooth, or experienced another type of dental injury in an accident, it’s important to work with a qualified dentist in your area. Taking this measure can help you to obtain the treatment that you need following an accident that has resulted in dental issues or injuries.
Resources:
Wikipedia, Dental Care
Alliance Dentistry, Cosmetic Dentist Morrisville
