Knocked-Out Tooth? Here’s What to Do Immediately.

Accidents can occur unexpectedly and at any place or time, including the unfortunate event of a heavily knocked tooth. Whether you’re engaging in a sport or biting into something hard, it’s crucial to be prepared. In such a stressful situation, knowing the right steps to take immediately can make all the difference in saving your tooth. Seeking the assistance of an emergency dentist is highly recommended to ensure prompt and proper care. Dentistry at The Grove, an emergency dentist in Burlington is here to guide you on how to handle a knocked-out tooth immediately.

 

Step 1: Retrieve the Tooth

The first step is to locate the knocked-out tooth quickly. If the tooth is dirty, gently rinse it with cool water, but do not scrub or use soap. If possible, try to hold the tooth by the crown (the part that’s normally visible in the mouth) and avoid touching the root. Doing so may disrupt the tissue fragments still attached to the root surface.

 

Step 2: Keep the Tooth Moist

Keeping the knocked-out tooth moist can preserve the vitality of the ligament cells clinging to the root surface. If possible, try to re-insert the tooth back into its socket gently. If that’s not possible, place the tooth in a container with enough milk or saliva to cover it and not water. Milk and saliva provide an environment that is close to the chemical composition of the human mouth and can keep the tooth moist for a short period.

 

Step 3: Control the Bleeding

If there’s any bleeding from the point where the tooth was uprooted, use a clean cloth or gauze to apply pressure for 10 to 15 minutes. If bleeding persists, visit a dentist near you immediately.

Step 4: Make an Emergency Visit to the Dentist

Seek emergency dental treatment as soon as possible after losing a tooth. The quicker you seek professional treatment, the higher the possibility of saving your tooth. Dentists can evaluate the extent of damage to the tooth, reposition and stabilize the tooth, and determine if there is a need for further treatment.

 

Step 5: Prevent Future Injuries

Taking preventive measures such as wearing appropriate mouthguards can significantly reduce the risk of a knocked-out tooth incident. Rusty, damaged, or ill-fitting mouthguards can be dangerous and should be replaced as soon as possible.

 

Conclusion:

In case of a knocked-out tooth, always remember to act rapidly by retrieving the tooth, moisturizing it, and controlling the bleeding. Notably, visiting a dentist as soon as you can after a tooth has been knocked out can increase the chances of saving your tooth. At Dentistry at The Grove, we offer dental emergency and routine dental care services, so you and your loved ones can get the best dental care solutions. We are here to help you maintain or restore your oral health and keep your smile bright and healthy.

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