Dental Trauma: Types of Tooth Injuries and When to Seek Emergency Care

Whether it’s a playground fall or a sports injury, acting fast after dental trauma can mean the difference between saving or losing a tooth. Here’s how to respond.
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Posted on June 15, 2025
Woman holding an ice pack to her cheek while consulting a dentist about dental pain or trauma
A patient experiences jaw pain and consults her dentist following dental trauma—highlighting the urgency of same-day care.

Accidents happen—and when they involve your teeth, time is everything. Whether it’s your child chipping a tooth on the monkey bars or you cracking one during lunch, knowing what to do in a dental emergency can protect your smile and avoid long-term damage.

At Pecan Tree Family Dentistry, we offer same-day emergency appointments for patients who need urgent attention after dental trauma.

🦷 Common Types of Dental Trauma

Here are the most frequent dental injuries we treat—and how we handle each:

1. Chipped or Fractured Tooth

  • Minor chip? Smoothing or bonding may be enough.
  • Deep crack? A dental crown or root canal may be needed if the crack reaches the nerve.

📌 Related Reading: What Is a Dental Filling?

2. Knocked-Out Tooth (Avulsion)

This is a true emergency.

  • Rinse the tooth gently with water—don’t touch the root
  • Try placing it back in the socket
  • If that’s not possible, place the tooth in milk or saliva
  • Get to the dentist within 30–60 minutes for the best chance of saving it

3. Dislodged Tooth (Luxation)

If a tooth is pushed in, out, or sideways, it needs quick repositioning and splinting.

  • Delaying treatment can cause nerve damage or bone loss

4. Cracked or Split Tooth

Cracks cause pain when chewing or with temperature changes.

  • Early treatment may involve bonding
  • Severe cracks may require a crown or root canal to prevent infection

5. Soft Tissue Injuries

These include cuts to the lips, tongue, gums, or inner cheeks.

  • Rinse gently
  • Apply pressure to control bleeding
  • Visit a dentist to assess for stitches or deeper injury

📌 Related Reading: Emergency Dental Exams & X-Rays – Just $19

🚨 Emergency Dentist in McKinney, TX

If you’ve experienced a dental injury, call us at (972) 562-0767 immediately.

We offer:

  • Same-day and walk-in emergency care
  • Onsite imaging and diagnosis
  • Pain relief, repair, and long-term solutions

At Pecan Tree Family Dentistry, we’re ready to help restore your smile—fast.

Dr.-Peter-J.-Kim

By Peter J. Kim, DDS

Dr. Peter J. Kim, DDS, is a highly skilled dentist in McKinney, TX. He earned his dental degree from the prestigious University of Michigan School of Dentistry and completed his residency in New York City. Dr. Kim is passionate about providing exceptional dental care and stays at the forefront of the field through advanced techniques and continuous education. Dedicated to serving the McKinney community, Dr. Kim offers a wide range of services, ensuring personalized care for every patient.