Motorcycle Accident Dental Injuries Can Be Costly And Painful

In the event of an accident, motorcyclists are vulnerable to a wide range of serious injuries, including dental and orofacial damage. Even wearing a full helmet may not help, as it often fails to provide any meaningful protection for the mouth and teeth.

While dental injuries may not sound particularly dire—especially in light of the fact that motorcycle crashes are frequently fatal for motorcyclists—they can be extremely painful and may even cause facial disfigurement. Significant dental damage can also make it difficult for injured motorcyclists to eat, breathe, talk, sleep, or hold a job.

Also, unlike broken bones, which usually are restored after being set or with the addition of a few metal screws, teeth don't heal. Instead, a motorcycle crash victim may have to endure costly dental or orthodontic work, oral surgery, or even plastic or reconstructive surgery to repair the orofacial damage.

However, motorcyclists who sustain serious dental injuries in accidents caused by another person's or agency's negligence may be entitled to compensation.

If you experienced dental or orofacial injuries in a negligence-related crash, here's what you need to know before taking legal action.

Common Dental and Orofacial Injuries Associated With Motorcycle Accidents

When a motorcyclist is thrown from his bike in an accident, his face may hit the ground with substantial force. This can result in a number of injuries, including:

• Chipped or cracked teeth. Even relatively minor injuries like chipped teeth can require costly dental work, such as being buffed smooth or the installation of porcelain veneers. Cracked teeth may require further measures, such as a dental crown to provide additional support and strength.
• Knocked out teeth. Also known as avulsed teeth, knocked out teeth can sometimes be salvaged, provided the injured motorcyclists takes good care of them and can get in to see a dentist right away. Otherwise, the missing teeth may need to be replaced with dental bridges or implants.
• Dislodged teeth. While not fully avulsed, dislodged teeth are those that are twisted sideways or push partially out of or too deeply into their sockets.
• Root fractures. A root fracture is a deep dental fracture that involves the tooth's pulp. Treatment may include repositioning the tooth, if displaced, and stabilizing it with a flexible dental splint for several weeks.
• Broken nose or jawbone. Treatment for a broken nose can include realignment and, in some extreme cases, surgery. Depending on the severity, a broken jaw may require surgery or doctors may wire the jaw shut for a period of time to allow the bones to heal themselves.
• Facial scarring or disfigurement. Disfigurement or extensive facial scarring can seriously affect an injured motorcyclist's self-esteem, and may necessitate plastic or reconstructive surgeries.
• Depression and anxiety. Concerns about their appearance and physical and financial well-being can weigh heavily on motorcycle accident victims with dental or orofacial injuries.

Seeking Compensation for Dental Injuries

There are several things injured motorcyclists can do to build a strong case, including:

• See a dentist, periodontist, oral surgeon, or orthodontist right away and heed the prescribed treatment plan, including attending follow-up visits.
• Collect accident evidence, such as photos or videos of the scene, contact information for other drivers and witnesses, medical bills, and receipts for other related expenses.
• Consult a knowledgeable and reputable personal injury attorney with experience handling motorcycle accident cases.

Consult an Experienced Motorcycle Accident Attorney

Did you suffer severe dental injuries in a motorcycle accident for which you were not at fault? If so, you may be eligible to pursue compensation for your injuries and losses, including medical expenses, property damage to the motorcycle, lost wages, pain and suffering, disfigurement, and other damages.

Contact McGartland Law Firm today to schedule an appointment for a free initial review of your case. Our skilled legal team can help you protect your rights, explore your legal options, and fight for whatever compensation you deserve.