What To Do When A Tooth Gets Knocked Out
Whether in an accident or injury, having a tooth knocked out can be scary. Dental trauma is serious, and if it happens to you or a loved one, you should be prepared how to act. If you act accordingly, you can save the tooth and prevent other dental issues later on the road. Although we hope you will never need the knowledge on saving a front tooth and how to act if your tooth gets knocked out, we want to provide you with everything you need to know about having a tooth knocked out!
Don’t Panic
Although it’s natural to feel alarmed, try your best to remain calm and focus on taking the right steps. Time is critical when a permanent tooth is knocked out. In many cases, a tooth can be successfully re-implanted if it is treated within 30 to 60 minutes of the injury. Modern dentistry offers advanced techniques to restore and stabilize injured teeth, but fast action greatly improves the chances of saving your natural tooth.
If there is bleeding, gently bite down on a clean cloth or gauze to help control it. Check the mouth carefully to locate the tooth and ensure there are no additional injuries that require urgent medical care.
Call Your Emergency Dentist
Contact your dentist right away and explain that a tooth has been knocked out. Dental offices prioritize emergencies like this and will try to see you as soon as possible. The sooner you receive professional care, the better the chances of saving the tooth. Even if you are unsure whether the tooth can be saved, it is still essential to seek care immediately.
If the injury occurs outside of normal office hours, visit an emergency dental clinic or emergency room for assistance.
Handle/Transport The Tooth Accordingly
Did you know that one of the best substances to put a knocked-out tooth in is milk? The milk allows the tooth to stay moist and fresh until you can make it into the dentist’s office. If milk is not available, place the tooth in water. Always take the tooth if it is intact and not split into different pieces. It is also a good idea to keep the tooth between your gums, cheek, or under your tongue to stay in your saliva. This is not the best option for a young child who may be unable to keep the tooth still. Transporting your tooth accordingly will help you set your dentist up for success.
What to Expect at the Dental Appointment
When you arrive, your dentist will evaluate the tooth, the socket, and the surrounding tissues. If conditions allow, the dentist may clean the area and carefully re-implant the tooth into its socket. In many cases, a small splint is placed to stabilize the tooth while it heals and reattaches to the bone.
Your dentist will also check for additional injuries, such as fractures, nerve damage, or trauma to surrounding teeth and gums. X-rays may be taken to assess the full extent of the injury.
Follow Your Dentist’s Aftercare Instructions
After you meet with your dentist, be sure to follow their guidelines. Avoid chewing anything hard or sticky after your tooth has been re-implanted. The area will be sore and tender, so eat soft foods and plenty of liquids to prevent additional discomfort. Take any prescribed antibiotics to prevent infection and any pain meds they have suggested to relieve some pain. Having a tooth knocked out can bring discomfort, so be sure to notify your dentist and don’t silently suffer. Your dentist will recommend a follow-up within a week of your initial appointment to examine the tooth that had been knocked out.
Contact Birch Family Dentistry
At Birch Family Dentistry, we are committed to providing compassionate, high-quality dental care for you and your entire family. Whether you’re due for a routine cleaning, interested in improving your smile, or experiencing a dental emergency, our friendly team is here to help. We take pride in creating a comfortable, welcoming environment and are happy to answer any questions you may have about our services, insurance, or scheduling. Contact our office today to schedule your appointment and take the next step toward a healthier, more confident smile. You can give us a call at 603.471.6000or use our convenient online contact form, and a member of our team will be in touch soon.