A scenario that can leave anyone stressed is a knocked-out tooth. It’s easy to be worried about your oral health, but it’s important you act fast during this dental emergency. Knowing exactly what to do can help you feel confident dealing with this situation. Whether you want to prepare for it or are currently experiencing it, here’s a guide on how to handle a knocked-out tooth.
1.) Find Your Tooth and Pick It Up by the Crown
You should first take a breath to calm yourself, then find where your tooth is. Pick it up by the crown only, which is the part you chew with. Do your best not to touch the root, as there are cells and tissues on it that can aid with reattachment. Assess the condition to see whether it has been damaged in any way as well.
2.) Rinse off the Debris That’s on It
You might notice debris on the tooth, so take a second to rinse it in a still bowl of milk, sterile saline, your saliva, or water. If you do the latter, then be sure you keep it brief. Exposing the roots to it for too long can harm the cells on the surface. Be sure you don’t use any soap or scrub it. Don’t dry it off afterward and keep it moist.
3.) Put the Tooth Back into Its Socket or Place It in Milk
If possible, reinsert the tooth into its socket. Position it back into its place carefully and bite down on a clean paper towel or washcloth. This can be uncomfortable for some, but you can place it in a container of milk or your own saliva as an effective alternative. You can also keep it inside your mouth between your gums and cheek, but be careful you don’t accidentally swallow it.
4.) Visit Your Emergency Dentist Immediately
When you are doing the steps above, make way to your emergency dentist. The sooner you visit them, the higher the chance you have of successfully reattaching the tooth. Going within the hour gives you the best shot, and waiting too long can greatly diminish your odds.
Can My Dentist Save My Tooth?
At your urgent oral visit, your dentist will assess your mouth and the condition of the tooth itself. They may be able to reattach it with a split to hold it in place while the gum and bone tissues grow back around it. In some cases, the structure won’t be salvageable, so you may be asked about replacement options. That way, you can get back to a full smile you feel confident in.
About the Practice
At Killeen Choice Dental, you benefit from the compassionate leadership of Dr. Daood Alvi and Dr. Talal Altaher. We are dedicated to helping the local community during their dental emergencies. By offering same-day dental care, we can give you the relief you deserve as soon as possible. If you wound up with a knocked-out tooth, schedule an appointment or call our office at (254) 220-4422.