Traumatic Injury Treatment in Stillwater, MN

Comprehensive Care for Dental Injuries and Long-Term Restoration

Led by Dr. Ernest Reeh, our experienced team provides emergency and long-term restorative solutions for patients in Stillwater, Oak Park Heights, Bayport, Lake Elmo, and Grant, MN. Whether your injury requires root canal therapy, splinting, or endodontic surgery, we are here to help you heal and protect your smile.

Common Types of Dental Trauma

Dental injuries vary in severity and require different treatment approaches. The most common types of tooth trauma include:

1. Knocked-Out Tooth (Avulsed Tooth)

• A tooth that has been completely dislodged from the socket due to trauma.
• Immediate care is critical—teeth re-implanted within 30-60 minutes have the best chance of survival.

2. Dislodged (Luxated) Tooth

• A tooth that has been pushed deeper into the socket, loosened, or shifted out of position.
• Requires repositioning, splinting, and possible root canal therapy to ensure long-term stability.

3. Cracked or Fractured Tooth

• A break in the enamel, dentin, or root due to impact.
• Depending on the severity, treatment may involve bonding, a crown, root canal therapy, or extraction.

4. Root Fracture

• A fracture beneath the gum line that may not be visible but can cause pain and instability.
• Often detected through 3D imaging and digital X-rays to determine the best treatment.

5. Soft Tissue Injuries

• Trauma affecting the gums, lips, tongue, or inner cheeks that may require suturing or infection prevention.

If you experience any of these injuries, seeking prompt treatment is essential to prevent complications and increase the chances of saving your tooth.

What to Do After a Dental Injury

For a Knocked-Out Tooth:

• Pick up the tooth by the crown, not the root.
• Rinse it gently with water—do not scrub or remove attached tissue.
• Try to place it back into the socket if possible.
• If re-implantation isn’t possible, store it in milk or saliva to keep it moist.
• Seek emergency dental care immediately—time is critical!

For a Dislodged or Loose Tooth:

• Avoid chewing on the affected side.
• Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.
• Call us right away to stabilize the tooth and prevent further damage.

For a Cracked or Fractured Tooth:

• Rinse with warm water to clean the area.
• Use a cold compress to reduce swelling.
• Avoid hot or cold foods that may worsen sensitivity.
• Schedule an appointment as soon as possible for evaluation and treatment.

For Soft Tissue Injuries:

• Apply gentle pressure to control bleeding.
• Rinse with warm salt water to cleanse the area.
• Use a cold compress to minimize swelling.
• If bleeding persists, seek immediate dental or medical care.

Our Approach to Traumatic Injury Treatment

At River Valley Endodontics, we provide advanced, patient-centered care for dental trauma, ensuring the best possible outcomes. Our treatment options include:

1. Emergency Tooth Re-Implantation & Stabilization

• If a tooth has been knocked out, we will attempt to reposition and splint it to promote healing.
• The sooner the tooth is treated, the higher the success rate.

2. Root Canal Therapy for Injured Teeth

• If a tooth’s pulp is damaged, a root canal may be needed to remove infection and preserve the tooth.
• This helps prevent long-term complications and maintain oral health.

3. Splinting for Loose or Displaced Teeth

• A stabilizing splint is used to hold the injured tooth in place, allowing the surrounding structures to heal.

4. Restorative Solutions for Fractured Teeth

• Bonding or dental crowns for minor to moderate fractures.
• Endodontic surgery if the fracture extends into the root.

Why Choose River Valley Endodontics for Dental Trauma Treatment?

• Emergency Same-Day Appointments – We prioritize urgent cases to ensure prompt treatment.
• Specialized Expertise – Dr. Ernest Reeh has decades of experience in treating complex dental injuries.
• Advanced Imaging Technology – We use 3D imaging and digital X-rays to accurately diagnose and treat injuries.
• Pain-Free Treatment – Our sedation options ensure a comfortable and stress-free experience.
• Commitment to Saving Natural Teeth – We focus on preserving your original tooth structure whenever possible.