Everyone fears having a tooth knocked out because it won’t grow back. Not to mention, it’s a traumatic experience. Although you may never expect it to happen to you, over 3 million teeth are avulsed (knocked out) annually. Accidents and injuries happen with no warning; however, sports are a leading cause of knocked-out teeth. No matter the reason, time is of the utmost importance. Despite what you might have heard, a knocked-out tooth can be saved if you act quickly. You must get your tooth back in its socket, and here’s how to do it.
Calm Down and Find Your Tooth
If you lose a tooth, don’t panic! Take a few deep breaths and look for your tooth. Pick it up, but don’t touch the roots. Only hold it by the crown to avoid damaging the root cells.
Rinse Your Tooth
If your tooth is relatively undamaged, rinse it with cool water carefully. Don’t use any cleaning products and don’t scrub it. Make sure all dirt and debris are off it before inserting it in its socket. Do not dry your tooth because it must be kept moist.
Reinsert It into Its Socket
Carefully position your tooth above its socket and slide it into place. Bite on a piece of gauze to prevent it from moving.
Preserve Your Tooth
If you’re unsuccessful in getting your tooth back in place, you must preserve it. It’s best to put it in a dental saline solution, but if you don’t have any handy, a cup of milk will do. Avoid using tap water because it can damage the root cells. Bring your tooth with you to your dentist.
Treating a Knocked-Out Tooth
It’s important to get to an emergency dentist within 30 minutes because the likelihood of saving a tooth decreases dramatically after that time. If your tooth can be saved, your dentist will create a dental splint. A thin wire is temporarily attached to the surface of the tooth and those next to it. This will stabilize your tooth, allowing the ligaments and tissues to heal around it.
If your tooth can’t be saved, your dentist will discuss your replacement options, like a dental implant. It is the only method of mimicking both the root and the crown, giving you the next best thing to your natural tooth.
About Dr. Andrew Tadros
Dr. Tadros earned his dental degree at the University of the Pacific Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry and has completed additional training in various specialties to provide complete care from one location. He is affiliated with several professional organizations, including the American Dental Association. Request an appointment through his website or call his office at (469) 444-2123.