Although in most cases the signs of tooth injury are obvious, other signs and symptoms may occur that can indicate the severity of the injury. For example, patients who experience concussions may feel dental pain when the tooth is tapped with a dental instrument. Some teeth – such as primary incisors – may change color after a concussion.

Symptoms of subluxation (when a tooth is loosened but not knocked out of place) may include bleeding around the neck of the tooth. In many cases, a splint needs to be placed around the subluxated tooth to help repair the periodontal ligament.