A knocked-out tooth is one of the most serious dental emergencies, but acting quickly can make all the difference. Whether it’s due to a sports injury, accident, or sudden impact, knowing what to do before reaching a dentist can help save your tooth and restore your smile.
If you or someone you know experiences this dental emergency, follow these essential steps before heading to an emergency dentist for immediate care.
Stay Calm and Act Quickly
A knocked-out tooth (also known as an avulsed tooth) has the best chance of being saved if it is reimplanted within 30-60 minutes. Staying calm and taking quick action can significantly improve the chances of successful treatment.
Handle the Tooth Properly
When picking up the knocked-out tooth, always hold it by the crown (the white part)—never touch the root. The root contains delicate tissues that are essential for reattachment, and touching it can reduce the chances of saving the tooth.
Rinse the Tooth Gently (If Necessary)
If the tooth has dirt or debris on it, rinse it gently with milk, saline solution, or clean water. Avoid scrubbing, using soap, or applying any chemicals, as this can damage the root cells.
Try to Reinsert the Tooth (If Possible)
If you feel comfortable doing so, carefully place the tooth back into its socket. Gently push it into position and hold it in place by biting down on a clean piece of gauze or cloth. This helps keep the tooth stable until you see an emergency dentist Chandler.
If you’re unable to reinsert the tooth, move on to the next step.
Keep the Tooth Moist
A dry tooth is much harder to save, so keeping it moist is crucial. Here’s how:
Place it in milk – This is the best option because milk helps preserve the root’s living cells. Use a tooth preservation kit – If you have access to an emergency tooth preservation kit (available at pharmacies), use it immediately. Hold it in your mouth – If no other option is available, keep the tooth inside your cheek (only if it’s your own tooth). Use saline or water as a last resort – If no other option is available, store the tooth in saline or water, but avoid prolonged exposure, as it may damage the root cells.
Visit a Dentist Immediately
Time is critical! Contact a dentist Chandler right away and explain the situation. The dentist will assess the condition of the tooth and determine the best course of action.
What to Expect at the Dentist’s Office:
- The dentist will examine the tooth and socket.
- If the tooth is still viable, they may reimplant and stabilize it using a splint.
- A root canal may be needed later to prevent infection.
- If the tooth cannot be saved, options like dental implants, bridges, or dentures may be recommended.
Preventing Knocked-Out Teeth in the Future
While accidents happen, taking precautions can help reduce the risk of dental injuries.
Wear a mouthguard – If you play contact sports, a custom-fitted mouthguard can help protect your teeth. Avoid chewing on hard foods – Ice, popcorn kernels, and hard candies can increase the risk of chipping or knocking out a tooth. Take safety precautions – Be mindful when biking, skating, or engaging in high-impact activities.
Final Thoughts
A knocked-out tooth is a serious dental emergency, but with immediate action and the right care from an Emergency Dentist, your tooth may be saved. Remember to handle the tooth properly, keep it moist, and seek professional care as soon as possible.
If you or a loved one experiences a dental emergency, don’t wait—contact Shumway Dental Care Chandler right away for expert care and treatment!
