Tooth injuries may include damage to teeth as a result of falls, accidents and other mishaps. These injuries can cause teeth to become chipped, cracked, partially displaced or completely dislodged from the socket in the mouth.

In most cases, a tooth injury requires the care of a dentist or other medical professional. The severity of injury depends on which portions of the tooth have been damaged. The tooth is composed of the crown, root, dentin, enamel and pulp.

Patients are urged to seek emergency help whenever a permanent tooth is knocked out, jaw swelling indicates a potential fracture or bleeding of the gums does not stop despite firm pressure.

Tooth injuries may be described as uncomplicated or complicated. Uncomplicated injuries do not expose the pulp, which reduces the chance of infection and loss of the tooth. On the other hand, complicated injuries do expose the pulp to potential infection, which can lead to the death of the pulp. If the pulp dies, pus may begin to build up near the root tip in the jawbone. This is called an abscess, and it can damage the bone around the teeth.

When a permanent tooth is completely knocked out, it can still be saved. Teeth have the best chance of being saved if they are replaced within 30 minutes of falling out. After two hours, the tooth has a low probability of surviving. Primary teeth that are completely knocked out of the socket cannot be reimplanted.

A dentist can stabilize teeth that are loose but still intact. Teeth that are chipped or cracked can have the jagged edges smoothed during dental procedures.