If you hit your tooth, it could become concussed, leading to pain and potential discoloration.
Understanding Dental Concussions
A hit to the tooth, even if it doesn't result in a break or knock-out, can cause a dental concussion. This is essentially a bruising of the tooth and surrounding tissues. The symptoms of a concussed tooth can vary in severity.
Common Symptoms
Here's what might happen if you hit your tooth:
- Pain: The tooth might become sensitive to pressure or temperature.
- Discoloration: The tooth can change color, either temporarily or permanently.
- Temporary Discoloration: May go away on its own.
- Permanent Discoloration: May require dental treatment to resolve.
- Sensitivity: Increased sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks.
When to Seek Dental Care
While a concussed tooth often doesn’t require emergency treatment, it's essential to know when to seek help:
- Dark or Black Discoloration: If the tooth turns black or a very dark color, see a dentist right away. This could indicate a more serious issue.
- Severe Pain: If the pain is intense or doesn't subside, contact your dentist.
- Loose Tooth: If the tooth becomes loose after the impact, seek immediate dental care.
What to Do if You Hit Your Tooth
- Clean the area: Gently rinse your mouth with warm water.
- Apply cold compress: Use an ice pack on the outside of your cheek near the affected tooth.
- Avoid chewing: Try not to use the injured tooth while eating to prevent further trauma.
- Monitor symptoms: Observe any changes in pain levels or color of the tooth.
Key Takeaway
A hit to the tooth can result in a dental concussion which can cause pain and potential discoloration. While usually not an emergency, black or dark discoloration should be addressed immediately.
