Having a permanent tooth knocked out is one of the most traumatic dental injuries any person can experience. If your tooth got knocked out due to an accidental blow to your face, you’d need to see an emergency dentist in Short Pump right away. However, unless you follow the proper steps for handling a dislodged tooth, your dental care provider won’t be able to reattach it.
How to Save a Knocked-Out Tooth
Pick Up the Tooth by Its Crown
A dislodged tooth shouldn’t be left lying around. Be sure to locate it and pick it up by its crown or biting surface. Handling it by the root or the area that attaches the tooth to your gum will cause damage and lower your chances of having it placed back in its socket.
Clean the Tooth
If your knocked-out tooth landed on the ground, rinse away dirt and debris under warm water. Avoid scrubbing it with soap and other chemicals or rubbing it with a towel or washcloth.
Try to Reposition the Tooth Back to the Socket
Your teeth are living tissues that need the sockets for blood supply. If possible, reposition your dislodged tooth back to its rightful place. While handling the tooth by its crown, gently push it in or position it above the socket before slowly biting down on it.
Keep the Tooth Moist Until You See the Dentist
If you can’t reposition the tooth back into its socket, keep it moist until you see your dental care provider. One of the best ways to do this is to place the tooth in a cup of milk. Milk contains sugars, cells, proteins, acids, and antibacterial agents that help keep the tooth viable. If you can’t keep the tooth in milk, try holding it between your cheek and gum.
Looking for an Emergency Dentist in Short Pump?
The team of specialists at Commonwealth Endodontics will go above and beyond to save your teeth. If you need exceptional and immediate dental attention, call us now.