A sudden shock to the system from a knocked-out tooth can be distressing and cause confusion and fear. However, knowing what to do in this situation can make all the difference in saving your tooth! Whether it happens during sports, a vehicular accident, or a simple slip, taking immediate action is critical. If you want an easy-to-follow guide to check after the injury, continue reading.
Step 1: Stay Calm
After a tooth is knocked out, it’s essential to stay as calm as possible. Panicking can alter your decision-making abilities, causing you to make critical mistakes. Take a few deep breaths and calm your mind for a moment before moving on.
Step 2: Find The Tooth and Call Your Dentist
Carefully pick up the tooth by the crown (the top) and avoid touching the root. Handling the tooth by the root can damage the connective tissues needed for successful re-implantation.
Once the tooth has been found, call your dentist for an emergency dental appointment. You’ll need to go quickly as you only have 30 minutes to an hour to have your tooth repaired before the chances of success go down significantly.
Step 3: Clean the Tooth and Preserve It
If the tooth is dirty, rinse it gently under lukewarm water. Avoid scrubbing or using soap, chemicals, or alcohol, as these can also harm the root tissues. Afterward, drop the tooth in a small container of saliva or milk to keep it moist for transport.
Step 4: Reinsert the Tooth
If possible, try to reinsert the tooth into its socket. Hold the tooth by the crown and gently push it back into place. Once in place, bite down gently on a clean cloth to keep the tooth in position. If you can’t put it back in, keep it in the container.
Step 5: Go to the Dentist
Once you have your tooth secure, it’s time to go to the dentist. There, they’ll give you a quick examination, disinfect your mouth, and properly reinsert your tooth. After, they’ll secure it in place and give you some care instructions.
So, in case of a knocked-out tooth, remember to handle it with care and seek immediate dental attention. Following these easy steps will significantly increase the likelihood of saving your tooth and keeping your smile healthy!
About the Practice
Dr. Stephanie Flinchum and Dr. Aeron Smith are skilled and friendly dentists who pride themselves on the personalized care they offer their patients. Whether you need a filling or a same-day emergency dental appointment, they have the technology and the experience to help. Call (918) 949-4450 to schedule an emergency dental appointment at My Dentist, or visit the website to see a full menu of other treatments and services they provide.