Understanding the Signs of Tooth Death After Trauma: What to Look Out For and When to Visit Your Dentist
Experiencing trauma to your teeth can be stressful, but visiting your dentist quickly often ensures everything is alright.
Even if your dentist says everything is okay, a tooth can die after a traumatic injury days or even months later. It’s essential to stay vigilant for any signs that might indicate that your tooth is dying.
By recognising these signs early, you can take control of your dental health and seek timely treatment, potentially preventing further complications.
Here’s what you need to know about the signs of tooth death and when you should make a follow-up visit to your dentist.
What Causes a tooth to die?
Tooth death can result from various factors, with trauma (injury) being a significant cause. Understanding these causes can help you better protect your dental health.
When a tooth experiences a severe impact can disrupt the blood supply to the pulp (the tooth's nerve), leading to necrosis. Other causes include severe decay, periodontal disease, or chronic infections.
Once a tooth dies, necrotic nerve tissue leaches out of the root and can cause severe pain and infections. Once this has happened you will need a root canal filling or an extraction.
Key Signs of Tooth Death
Discolouration
One of the earliest and most visible signs of a dying tooth is a change in colour.
As the pulp begins to die, a tooth may turn grey, brown, or black. This discolouration happens because the internal tissues break down and release pigments into the tooth structure.
The upper left central incisor has discoloured following trauma whilst playing hockey
Pain and Sensitivity
A dying tooth can cause varying levels of discomfort. Initially, you might experience sharp pain or sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures. As the nerve dies, the pain might subside, but this isn’t a sign of healing—it indicates that the tooth is becoming non-vital.
Swelling and Gum Inflammation
You might notice swelling, tenderness, or a pimple-like bump on the gums near the tooth, known as a dental abscess. This is a clear sign of infection and requires immediate attention.
Bad Breath or Taste
A dead tooth can emit a bad odour or cause a persistent bad taste in your mouth. This happens due to the decay of the tooth’s internal tissues, which can lead to bacterial growth and infection.
Looseness of the Tooth
If the tooth starts to feel loose, it can be a sign of advanced damage. The loss of structural integrity within the tooth and surrounding bone can lead to increased mobility.
When to See Your Dentist
Recognising these signs early can significantly improve the outcome of any necessary treatments.
If you have suffered from trauma or injury to your jaw or teeth, it’s wise to speak to a dentist ASAP. However, your tooth might only start to die a few days or even a few months later.
Here are some scenarios when you should schedule a follow-up visit to your dentist:
Persistent Pain or Sensitivity: If you experience ongoing discomfort that doesn't improve or subsides and then returns, it’s essential to check it.
Visible Discoloration: Any noticeable changes in the colour of your tooth should prompt a dental visit.
Gum Issues: Swelling, inflammation, or abscesses are signs that you need professional evaluation.
Bad Odor or Taste: Persistent bad breath or an unpleasant taste can indicate infection and should be addressed quickly.
Loose Tooth: If your tooth feels loose, immediate dental intervention is crucial to prevent further damage or tooth loss.
Conclusion
While initial trauma might not always lead to immediate problems, the potential for tooth death exists and requires vigilance.
By monitoring the signs outlined above, you can ensure that any issues are addressed promptly.
Regular follow-ups with your dentist, especially after experiencing trauma, can help catch any problems early and maintain your dental health.
If you notice any of these warning signs, don't hesitate to contact your dentist for an evaluation. Your proactive approach can make a significant difference in preserving your smile and overall well-being.
