Damage to the teeth and jaw is all too common in the aftermath of serious collisions. A person’s face may strike the steering wheel, dashboard, airbag, window or another object during a crash, resulting in painful and expensive dental injuries that require extensive treatment.
Dental trauma can take many forms. Teeth may chip, crack or break completely on impact. In more severe cases, teeth may be knocked out entirely or pushed out of position. Injuries to the jaw, gums and surrounding soft tissue are also common. Some accident victims suffer fractures to the jawbone or damage to the temporomandibular joint, commonly known as the TMJ, which can affect chewing, speaking and everyday comfort.
Managing the aftermath of an injurious crash
Dental treatment can be costly and may continue for years. Depending on the severity of the injury at issue, an individual may require fillings, crowns, root canals, implants, oral surgery or orthodontic treatment. Some injuries require ongoing care or future replacement of dental work as the patient ages.
Insurance companies sometimes underestimate the long-term impact of dental trauma, particularly when injuries are viewed as cosmetic rather than functional. In reality, damaged teeth and jaw injuries can affect eating, speaking, appearance and overall quality of life.
These costs should not be overlooked when evaluating a personal injury claim. Compensation may include medical expenses, dental treatment costs, lost wages and pain and suffering resulting from the injuries. Future anticipated dental care may also be considered when calculating damages.
When car accidents cause dental injuries, victims deserve compensation that reflects both the immediate and long-term effects of the harm they have suffered. An experienced legal team can work with dental professionals and medical experts to ensure that all injuries are fully considered.