A knocked-out tooth can be a frightening experience, but don’t panic. With quick action and proper care, you may be able to save the tooth and avoid long-term damage. If you know what to do, you have a better chance of saving your tooth.
What is a Knocked-Out Tooth?
First, it’s important to understand the difference between a knocked-out tooth and a tooth that has been knocked loose. A tooth that has been knocked loose is still attached to the gum and can often be pushed back into place with gentle pressure. On the other hand, a knocked-out tooth completely comes out of the socket. You will need to seek immediate attention.
How to Save the Tooth
If a tooth has been knocked out, the first step is locating it and handling it carefully. Do not touch the tooth’s root, as this can damage the cells needed for reattachment. Instead, hold the tooth by the crown, which is the tooth’s visible part above the gum line. If the tooth is dirty, rinse it gently with milk or saline solution. Do not use water or soap, as this can damage the cells.
Next, try to reinsert the tooth into the socket. Gently push the tooth back into place with your fingers, but do not force it if it doesn’t fit easily. If you cannot reinsert the tooth, place it in a container of milk or saliva to keep it moist. You must keep the tooth moist to increase the chances of successful reattachment. Do not wrap the tooth in tissue or cloth, as this can cause damage.
Once you have reinserted the tooth or placed it in a milk container, seek immediate dental care. Time is essential when saving a knocked-out tooth, so it’s important to see a dentist as soon as possible. The dentist will examine the tooth and socket and may take x-rays to check for damage to the root or surrounding bone. If they can reattach the tooth, the dentist will clean the socket and tooth and use a splint to hold the tooth in place while it heals.
If your dentist cannot reattach the tooth, there are still options for restoring your smile. Dental implants and bridges can replace missing teeth and provide a natural-looking and functional result. However, these options may require more extensive dental work and may be more expensive than reattaching the original tooth.
How to Prevent a Knocked-Out Tooth
To prevent a knocked-out tooth, wearing a mouthguard during high-risk activities like sports is important. Mouthguards can help absorb the force of an impact and protect your teeth from damage. If a knocked-out tooth does occur, quick action and proper care can help increase the chances of successful reattachment and avoid long-term damage.