When a tooth experiences trauma, it cannot technically “bruise” in the same way skin or muscle tissue does. Teeth are composed of hard materials like enamel and dentin, which do not contain blood vessels that can rupture and cause the discoloration associated with a bruise. Instead, trauma to a tooth affects the surrounding soft tissues and internal structures, leading to sensations similar to a bruise. This article explains what occurs when a tooth is injured and the steps to take.
Understanding Tooth Trauma
A tooth is anchored to the jawbone by a specialized structure called the periodontal ligament (PDL). This ligament, composed of connective tissue, acts as a shock absorber, cushioning the tooth during biting and chewing. When a tooth experiences impact or excessive force, the PDL can stretch or become inflamed, a condition sometimes referred to as a “sprained tooth”. This inflammation of the PDL often causes pain and tenderness, mimicking the feeling of a bruise in other parts of the body.
Severe trauma can also affect the tooth’s internal pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. Injury can lead to pulpitis (inflammation of the pulp) or nerve damage. The soft tissues within and surrounding the tooth are susceptible to injury and inflammation.
Recognizing Signs of Injury
When a tooth or its supporting structures sustain trauma, several symptoms can indicate an injury. Pain is a common sign, particularly when biting down or chewing, or when the tooth is touched. The affected tooth may also feel tender to the touch, or sensitive to hot or cold temperatures, which can point to pulpal inflammation.
Increased tooth mobility or a feeling that the tooth sits “high” in the bite can indicate inflammation or minor displacement. These signs differ from visible cracks, chips, or fractures, which signify direct structural damage to the tooth itself. These symptoms warrant attention to prevent complications.
When to Consult a Dentist
Seek professional dental care for any persistent pain or discomfort following tooth trauma. Immediate dental attention is especially important if you observe changes in tooth color, swelling around the tooth or gums, or if the tooth feels noticeably loose. A dentist can diagnose the injury’s extent, often using X-rays to assess the root and surrounding bone, or performing vitality tests to check pulp health.
Treatment approaches vary depending on the diagnosis. For mild injuries, monitoring the tooth’s condition over time may be sufficient. If the tooth feels high in the bite, a dentist might perform a bite adjustment to relieve pressure. More severe cases, like pulp damage, may require root canal treatment. Increased tooth mobility might necessitate splinting to adjacent teeth to aid healing.