Understanding the Nature of Dental Injuries in Auto Accidents

Dental trauma from car accidents can range from chipped teeth to complete tooth loss and jaw fractures. These injuries are typically caused by blunt force—often from striking a steering wheel, dashboard, or airbag—or from whiplash that forces the jaw to snap shut unexpectedly. Unlike more visible injuries, dental damage can be overlooked during the initial emergency treatment, only becoming apparent later.

In Ohio, injury victims can pursue compensation if another party’s negligence caused the crash. But dental injuries require more targeted documentation and expert analysis to receive appropriate compensation, especially when permanent damage or restorative procedures are involved.

Step 1: Prioritize Immediate Medical and Dental Attention

The most important step after a crash is to get examined—not only by a medical doctor, but also by a dentist or oral surgeon. Dental trauma may not always be visible right away. Cracks in teeth or hairline jaw fractures often require X-rays or CT imaging to identify.

Early treatment also creates a vital medical record that supports your injury claim. If you wait too long to get care, insurance companies may argue your injuries aren’t related to the crash.

What to do:

• Visit an emergency dentist within 24–48 hours of the accident
• Request all diagnostic records, including imaging and written evaluations
• Follow all recommended treatments, from root canals to orthodontic adjustments

Step 2: Document Everything Related to Your Injury

Strong claims are built on detailed evidence. The burden is on the injured party to prove that the dental damage resulted directly from the collision and to justify the costs of treatment. Insurance carriers will examine your records closely—and any inconsistencies or gaps can weaken your case.

Recommended documentation includes:

• Photos of visible injuries (bloody gums, broken teeth, swelling)
• Dental X-rays or scans before and after the accident (if available)
• Invoices, estimates, and receipts for all treatment and prescriptions
• Written statements from your dentist outlining the cause and necessary treatment
• A personal journal tracking pain levels, missed work, or difficulties eating and speaking

Step 3: Connect Your Dental Injury to the Accident

This is one of the most challenging parts of a dental injury claim. It’s not uncommon for insurers to argue that a dental issue is pre-existing or unrelated—especially if the damage involves a previously filled, capped, or weakened tooth.

To counter this:

• Have your dentist explicitly state in writing that the trauma is consistent with a car crash
• Seek an independent dental exam from a specialist for a second opinion, if needed
• Obtain your dental history to show the condition of your teeth prior to the incident

Establishing causation is especially important if you’re pursuing non-economic damages such as pain and suffering, or if future dental work is required.

Step 4: Be Prepared to Justify the Cost of Restorative Care

Dental procedures can be expensive and often require multiple stages of treatment. Full dental implants, crowns, and jaw surgery can cost thousands of dollars and may extend over months or even years. Insurance adjusters may resist paying full value for cosmetic or elective-sounding treatments unless you clearly show they’re medically necessary due to trauma.

To strengthen your compensation request:

• Have your dentist create a long-term treatment plan with estimated costs
• Provide comparisons showing why certain procedures (e.g., implants instead of bridges) are required for your specific situation
• Include expert opinions if your appearance, speech, or ability to eat is permanently affected

Step 5: Don’t Overlook the Emotional and Financial Toll

Dental injuries can have a deep psychological impact. You may be self-conscious about your smile, unable to speak clearly at work, or avoid certain foods. For some, these consequences lead to anxiety, depression, or loss of social confidence.

Ohio law allows injured individuals to seek compensation for these non-economic damages, but you must build a strong narrative supported by:

• Mental health evaluations (if you’re experiencing emotional distress)
• Testimony from family or coworkers about how the injury has affected your life
• Documentation of missed work, lost income, and reduced future earning capacity

Step 6: Work With a Lawyer Who Understands Dental Injury Claims

Not all personal injury attorneys have experience handling dental injury claims. These cases often require collaboration with dental professionals, specialized experts, and a deep understanding of Ohio’s personal injury laws.

A lawyer can help by:

• Gathering and organizing your medical and dental records
• Coordinating with experts to establish liability and causation
• Negotiating with insurers who may undervalue your dental injuries
• Filing a lawsuit if a fair settlement can’t be reached

Remember, in Ohio, you typically have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Waiting too long can forfeit your chance to seek compensation.

Conclusion

Dental injuries from car accidents are more than cosmetic issues—they can be painful, expensive, and emotionally draining. By seeking prompt care, carefully documenting your damages, and working with the right legal team, you improve your chances of securing fair compensation. Taking these steps not only strengthens your claim but also helps ensure a full and lasting recovery after an Ohio car accident.

Need Legal Help? Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law is One Phone Call Away

Navigating Ohio car accident claims can be challenging. Fortunately, you don't need to do it alone. The experienced personal injury lawyers at Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, are available 24/7 to help you understand your legal options, gather necessary evidence, and build a strong case to secure the settlement you deserve.

Contact us now for a free legal review.