If you’re like many people, one of your biggest fears is having a tooth knocked out. Although you might believe it will never happen to you, 5 million teeth are knocked out annually. If you find yourself in this situation, do you know what to do? You might think you’ve lost your tooth for good, but if you act fast, your emergency dentist in Williamstown can save it. Here are 5 steps to take after displacing a tooth.
1. Only touch the tooth by the crown.
It’s crucial you get to a dentist or endodontist within 30 minutes, but don’t leave your tooth behind. You’ll need to pick it up; however, do not touch the root. Only handle it by the chewing surface to avoid damaging fragile tissues on the root.
2. Rinse your tooth with water.
If the tooth is dirty, it will need to be rinsed off. While holding it by the crown, carefully rinse it with water, but don’t use any soaps or chemicals. Your tooth must always be kept moist, so don’t dry it.
3. Put the tooth back into the socket.
Although the thought might make you cringe, you need to try to put the tooth back in its socket right away. Gently push it in place using your fingers and slowly close your mouth while biting on a piece of gauze to hold it in place.
4. Don’t let your tooth dry out.
If you couldn’t get your tooth into the socket, you need to preserve it until you can get to the dentist. Since it must stay moist, place it in a cup of milk or on the inside of your mouth next to your cheek. Only use water as a last resort because the cells on the root surfaces can’t tolerate it for too long.
5. Get to your dentist.
Some studies show a knocked-out tooth can still be viable for up to 1 hour after being out of the mouth; however, time is of the utmost importance. You need to get to your emergency dentist as quickly as possible. They will do everything they can to save your tooth. If it’s too badly damaged and your dentist can’t rehabilitate it, they’ll discuss your replacement options, like a dental implant.
Prevent a knocked-out tooth.
Although you can’t prepare for all situations, you can lower your risk of a knocked-out tooth by wearing an athletic mouthguard if you play sports. You’ll give your smile an added layer of protection to safeguard your teeth and gums from injuries.
About Dr. Wael M. Kassem
Dr. Kassem earned his dental degree at Temple University before continuing his training at a level one trauma center in Brooklyn. His academic and career excellence has earned him recognition as one of America’s top dentists for many consecutive years. If you have a dental emergency, he can treat the most complex issues, like knocked-out teeth. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment.
