Frequently Asked Questions: Emergency Orthodontic Care Following an Accident
Injuries from an accident have the ability to impact a person’s life for the short, and in some cases long term. Dental injuries may require emergency orthodontic treatment following an accident. Obtaining orthodontic care can not only ensure that you receive the treatment you deserve, but provide you with evidence to support your legal claim should you pursue damages for your losses. Are you considering whether you need an orthodontist to treat your injuries? Here are the answers to some questions you may have:
What does an orthodontist do?
An orthodontist is a specialist in the area of dentistry who generally treats issues with bites, misalignment, jaw issues, and crooked teeth. Orthodontists receive special training and additional schooling in order to obtain the qualifications to provide orthodontic treatment to patients. Some people may be born with dental issues that require orthodontia. However, in the event of a traumatic accident such as a car accident, accident victims may need to seek the care of an orthodontist to properly treat injuries.
Why should I call an orthodontist for an injury after an accident?
Following an injury, it’s important that you receive care from a professional to treat your injuries. If you have sustained specific injuries to the mouth or jaw, it may be a good idea to seek care from an orthodontist. Working with a medical professional who administers care in this area of practice can ensure that you receive the treatment that you need. Additionally working with an orthodontist can help provide key documentation for your legal claim.
What are the common types of injuries that may require emergency orthodontic treatment?
There are a number of ways that injuries can occur, whether it is from playing sports, a car accident, or tripping and falling on the sidewalk. No matter the reason, in an accident, it’s possible to sustain injuries. In the event of other injuries, dental injuries may be overshadowed. Dental injuries that may require emergency orthodontic treatment include:
- Broken jaw
- Broken tooth
- Fractured roots
- Misplaced tooth
- Issues with hardware (if wearing braces)
What is the risk if my dental injuries are left untreated?
Dental injuries left untreated can quickly become a serious condition. Accident victims may lose teeth, experience infection, severe pain, suffer from scarring and a change in their physical appearance as a result. Because of these factors, it’s important to get the care you deserve from an orthodontist following an accident.
Can I seek compensation from the responsible party for the damages I have experienced?
Yes, it may be possible to seek damages from the party who can be held responsible for the accident. If you have been in an accident at the hands of another party, it’s important that you contact a personal injury lawyer to review your case and assist you in getting started.
How can care from an orthodontist help to strengthen my claim?
When pursuing a personal injury claim against the responsible party, you will need to prove that your injuries were the result of the accident. Additionally, when asking for compensation, it’s best to be able to outline the impact the injury has had on you. This should include the cost to obtain medical treatment and the extent of your injuries. An orthodontist, like an orthodontist in San Clemente, CA, may help to strengthen an accident claim because they can provide key evidence in the form of medical records that helps to prove your injuries.
For more information about emergency dental care following an accident, and how an orthodontist can help you, contact an orthodontist in your area.
Thanks to John Redmond Orthodontics for their insight into some of the frequently asked questions about emergency orthodontic care following an accident.
