When to See an Orthodontist
When someone falls victim to an accident, there is a chance that their injuries may not only involve broken bones, head injuries and lacerations but also serious dental injuries as well. Because of this, you may not only need to seek treatment from a doctor, but an orthodontist. However, you may be wondering what types of injuries may warrant the need to seek care from an orthodontist in lieu of treatment from a doctor. Here are some reasons you may want to seek an orthodontist for injuries that were sustained in an accident:
Reason #1 You Are Concerned That Your Teeth Are Misaligned
Misaligned teeth not only occur naturally but can also be the result of an accident that a person has experienced. Obtaining treatment from an orthodontist is key to ensure that you do not experience complications later on. Failing to obtain treatment following an accident that has resulted in misaligned teeth could result in:
- Pain
- Rapid Tooth Decay
- Gum Disease
Reason #2 You Are Concerned Your Bite Has Been Impacted
If you have noticed a change in your bite, it’s important to seek treatment from an orthodontist as this could be a sign of a much more serious issue. In some cases, a change in your bite could be a sign that your jaw has been fractured from the accident. If you are noticing that your bite is not aligning, or you have an overbite or underbite, seek treatment from an orthodontist immediately.
Reason #3 To Safeguard Your Personal Injury Case
If you are experiencing misalignment, bite issues, or another type of dental injury, you may consider taking legal action against the responsible party. This will require that you and your lawyer are able to prove that the negligent party:
- Had a duty of care
- Breached their duty of care
- Your injuries were caused by the accident
- You experienced damages as a result
As the plaintiff of a personal injury case, you will be charged with the burden of proof. Meaning that you will have to provide evidence that supports your case by a preponderance of the evidence. Seeking immediate care from an orthodontist following an accident involving a negligent party can help to provide key evidence that can help to not only safeguard, but maximize your claim.
The Difference Between an Orthodontist and a Dentist
Dentists and orthodontists are both charged with helping people to obtain optimal oral health. However, it’s important to be aware that they are not one in the same. Orthodontists and dentists have very different functions when it comes to your mouth. A dentist generally will deal with issues such as:
- Teeth Whitening
- Gum Disease
- Tooth Decay
- Root Canals
- Crowns
- Bridges
An orthodontist is required to have additional education in order to specialize in this area of practice. Orthodontists are more focused on the alignment of your teeth. Generally they treat:
- Overcrowding
- Overbites
- Underbites
- Misalignment of the Teeth
- Misalignment of the Jaw
Have you recently obtained a dental injury that requires care from an orthodontist? Mouth pain that has resulted from a dental injury can have a serious impact on your life. There are a number of reasons you may require a specialist so that you may receive the care that you deserve. Taking the time to schedule an appointment with a qualified orthodontist in San Clemente, CA may not only help to ensure that you receive the treatment you need, but also provide key documentation of the injuries you have suffered in the event you determine that taking legal action is in your best interest.
Thanks to John Redmond Orthodontics for their insight into dental care and reasons to see an orthodontist after an accident.
