Steps To Take To Increase The Chance Of Saving A Knocked Out Tooth

Dentist Blog

If you had a tooth knocked out of your mouth, you are most likely distraught, in shock, and scared of how you are going to proceed in getting your smile repaired. If you are able to find the tooth and care for it properly, there is a chance an emergency dentist can reinsert it back into the socket. Here are some tips you can use to maximize the likelihood that a dentist will be able to save your tooth after it is knocked out if its socket.

Clean The Tooth Appropriately

It is best to rinse the tooth after it is retrieved from the floor or ground so any bacteria that landed upon it will be removed. When doing this, hold the tooth by the crown portion so your fingers do not crush the roots attached to the tooth. Make sure to close the sink stopper when you rinse the tooth so it does not get whisked into the piping system if the water pressure is too great.

Attempt To Reinsert Your Tooth

If you are able to place your tooth back into the socket where it had fallen from, this will aid in making it easier to reattach when you get to your dentist's office. Make sure the tooth is facing the same way that it had been in before it was dislodged from your mouth. Place your tongue over the tooth to help keep it in place.

Store The Tooth To Protect The Roots

If you are unable to place the tooth back into the socket successfully, it will need to be contained in liquid so the roots do not dry up. The best liquid to use for this purpose is milk. Water is risky as there are minerals in many water sources, which can lead to the deterioration of the roots on your tooth. If you do not have a container of milk available to hold your tooth, place it in between your inner cheek and teeth as saliva will help keep the roots from becoming damaged.

Get To An Emergency Dentist Immediately

Do not waste any time in getting to your dentist's office. If possible, call them to alert them that you are on the way to their facility and tell them how you are caring for the tooth so they are aware that you are hoping to be able to have it reinserted when you arrive. The dentist will make preparations so you can be seen immediately upon your arrival. 

For more information, contact a professional such as one found at Family 1st Dental.

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30 December 2016

Dealing With Dental Dilemmas: Soft Teeth and Dental Care

Being born with naturally soft teeth, I've spent a lot of time in and out of the dentist's office. Not only have I learned a lot about basic dental care, I've also discovered many tips for dealing with broken teeth, extractions, implants, and more. I decided that I wanted to make the most of my experience by sharing what I've learned with others. True first-hand experience is a great teacher, and I knew that my story could help. I created this site to do just that, and I hope that the information here helps you to understand what to expect from your dental problems.