Millions of people are injured in car accidents every year in the U.S. While injuries like concussions and broken bones occur during these accidents, they aren’t the only injuries to worry about. It’s also possible to suffer dental injuries, which can be painful and require expensive treatments. Here’s some further information regarding dental damage from car accidents.
Common Dental Injuries from Car Accidents
Dental injuries can occur when your mouth strikes or is struck by an object, like a dashboard or window. Chips and cracks are one of the common dental injuries people suffer during car accidents. Without immediate treatment, the teeth are susceptible to further damage in the future.
Teeth can also get completely knocked out during a car accident. In this situation, it’s important to pick up the tooth by the crown and get to the orthodontist’s office within a few hours. The sooner you get treatment, the more likely the tooth can be saved.
Proving Damages
In order to receive compensation for your dental injuries, you must provide proof. The most common way to do this is through a dental X-ray. An orthodontist will be able to determine the type of damage that occurred by looking at an X-ray and then recommend the appropriate treatment.
Be sure to get copies of these X-rays for your personal injury lawyer.
Why You Should Seek Medical Care Immediately
It’s important to see an orthodontist as soon as possible after your car accident. If you wait too long to seek treatment, your dental injuries could get worse. Also, if you wait too long to seek treatment, the insurance company may not believe that you’re truly hurt and try to deny your claim.
If you’re worried about being able to pay for treatment, don’t hesitate to ask an orthodontist in San Clemente, CA about financing options. You can also ask your lawyer to recommend an orthodontist who is willing to give you a lien so that you don’t have to pay any money upfront.
Consulting With a Personal Injury Lawyer
If you suffered dental injuries in a car accident, it’s in your best interest to speak to an experienced personal injury lawyer soon. He or she can protect your legal rights and improve your chances of getting fair compensation.
During your initial consultation with your lawyer, be prepared to answer several questions about your case and bring any evidence you may have, such as dental X-rays or a police report. The more information your lawyer has, the better he or she can help you.
Thanks to John Redmond Orthodontics for their insight into dental care and damage after a car accident.
