A knocked-out tooth is nothing to scoff at, especially if you want to try and save your smile and avoid the added cost of replacing it. Because time is of the essence, it is imperative that you follow the appropriate steps to give your dentist the best chance of replanting your tooth. An emergency dentist in DuPont explains what to do if you face this type of situation and what you can expect when seeking help.
Knocked-Out Tooth: Steps to Take While at Home
Whether caused by playing sports or a sudden accident while working around the home, you will need to stay calm should you experience a knocked-out tooth. Naturally, you will want to call your dentist’s office to alert them of the situation. They will have you come in immediately, as it is necessary to seek professional help within one hour of the initial incident.
In the meantime, you will need to follow these simple steps:
- Retrieve the tooth by its crown and rinse off any debris. Touching the root could damage it.
- Never use soap to clean your tooth, only rinse it off with water.
- If possible, try to reinsert the tooth into the vacated socket with your fingers.
- If you are unsuccessful, place it between your gums and cheek inside your mouth or in a container of milk to keep it moist.
If you experience pain or swelling, take over-the-counter medication or use a cold compress, as these will help lessen the discomfort you may feel.
What Your Dentist Can Do to Save Your Smile
Depending on how long you wait to seek treatment for your knocked-out tooth, your dentist in DuPont may or may not be able to save it. If it is still viable, they may take dental X-rays and determine if there is damage to the bone before deciding how it can be replanted.
Your dentist may be able to use a splint to keep your tooth in place. The nerves, blood vessels, and tissues will likely be damaged, so it is possible you might need a root canal to allow the bone to reattach to the tooth. You will need to avoid chewing on that side of your mouth to prevent further harm while the tooth and bone heal.
If the tooth is no longer savable, it will be necessary to discuss replacement options such as a dental implant, a fixed bridge, or partial denture.
Ultimately, the decision is yours as to how you would like to replace your missing tooth, but your dentist will help you choose which solution will be best for long-lasting results.
When faced with a knocked-out tooth, do not let fear or panic take over. Instead, remain calm and follow the steps provided to ensure the health and longevity of your smile.
About the Practice
At Dupont Family Dentistry, we know a knocked-out tooth can be a scary situation. However, our team is here to deliver timely care when you need it most. While waiting to see us, we will provide you with helpful tips to reduce further damage to your smile. When arriving for your appointment, our team will work quickly to save your tooth and restore your appearance with solutions that are as minimally invasive as possible. If you or a loved one are facing a sudden dental emergency, contact us at (253) 964-7000. We are here to help!