You knocked out your tooth, and you don’t know what to do. This is the type of situation you don’t want to be in, especially since time is of the essence. If you wait too long to seek help, you can lose your tooth and require a form of replacement (i.e., dental bridge, dental implant, or a partial denture). Knowing what to do in this scenario is key, and it’s why you are welcome to keep reading to learn about the steps you should take when faced with this kind of dental emergency.
Step #1: Call the Dentist.
The first step is to call and alert your dentist to your problem. Getting in right away is essential if you want to save the tooth. The only way this is possible is if you call and let a team member know that you need an emergency appointment.
Step #2: Retrieve the Tooth.
If you can, retrieve the tooth, holding it only by its crown. Touching the root has the potential to damage it, making it unsavable. Rinse it off gently with water to remove any dirt and debris. If possible, try to reinsert the tooth into the socket and bite down gently to hold it in place. If this is not possible, place it in a container of milk or saliva to keep the root moist.
Step #3: Drive to the Dentist’s Office Immediately.
As soon as you have the tooth in your mouth or in a container, drive to your local dentist’s office right away. When you arrive, you can expect to be taken back and have digital images taken of your smile. This will give the dentist a better idea of the severity of the situation.
Step #4: Undergo Treatment.
Based on the recommendations of your dentist, they may suggest saving the tooth or replacing it. If they can save it, they may try to splint it to a healthy abutment tooth until it can reintegrate with the bone. If they cannot save it, you can expect to discuss which method of tooth replacement you prefer – dental bridges, dentures, or dental implants.
Dealing with a knocked-out tooth may cause you to feel panicked. The reality is that as long as you know what steps to take, you can quickly get the help you need and walk away with a fully restored smile.
About the Author
Dr. Aaron Swingdorf is an emergency dentist who is here to help patients when they need an oral healthcare expert the most. When suffering from a knocked-out tooth, he can quickly survey the severity and offer suggestions to save it or replace it. No matter what happens, he will ensure your safety and comfort from beginning to end. If you are concerned you don’t know how to handle a dental emergency, contact us at (952) 448-4151 or visit our website.
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