 | Dr. Gina Pinamonti is an orthodontist in Pittsburg, KS. practicing since 1998. She is a graduate of Pittsburg State University. She completed her dental training at the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Dentistry graduating with honors. She completed her Orthodontic and Dentofacial Orthopedic residency in 1998 from UMKC as well. Dr. Pinamonti is a member of the ADA, American Association of Orthodontists, Kansas Dental Association and the vice president of the Kansas Association of Orthodontists. For more information please call 620-231-6910 or visit www.smileoutloud.com. |
Orthodontics
2011-03-01 10:26:00
Dental emergencies
Question: I am an athletic coach and we occasionally see injuries with our players. Of course, we do all that we can to prevent injuries, with appropriate protective gear, but it is helpful to know what to do. One of the areas that I am finding we have a gap in our knowledge concerns dental injuries. Can you give us an idea of what to do should an injury occur?
Answer: Thank you for your concern for your players. Sports injuries account for a significant portion of dental injuries every year; most of them are preventable by wearing appropriate mouth and face guards. If an injury such as having a tooth knocked out, does occur, it is important to seek help as soon as possible.
Here are the American Dental Association’s recommendations for dental emergencies:
Knocked-out (avulsed) tooth: It is important to make an effort to find the tooth for possible reimplantation into the socket. Once found, hold the tooth on the crown or top of the tooth and very gently rinse the tooth in water. Do not remove any tissue or fragments. Push the tooth in the socket. Remember there will be bleeding and swelling in the socket and this will cause hydraulic pressure creating resistance as you push it into place. Hold it there and get to the dentist immediately. If it is not possible to put the tooth in the socket, put it in milk and drive to the dentist within an hour if possible. Time is critical for successful reimplantation.
Broken tooth- Rinse the mouth with warm water. Use cold compresses on the outside of the cheek to reduce swelling. Go to your dentist to get the missing enamel replaced for your comfort.
Tongue or lip wounds- Clean the area gently with a clean cloth and apply cold compresses to reduce swelling. To reduce tongue bleeding, pull it forward and apply pressure with gauze. If the bleeding cannot be controlled, take the injured party to the hospital emergency room.
Possible broken jaw- Apply cold compress, and get to the hospital immediately.
