Accidents have a way of happening at any time. Sudden trauma during soccer, slipping on the playground, or a home misstep can dislodge a tooth.
It sounds scary, but if you act fast—and correctly—you might be able to save that tooth. Whether it is your tooth or someone else’s, knowing what to do right away when a tooth is knocked out can make the difference between a tooth being saved.
Here is a simple and straightforward activity you can take to feel sure of what to do.
Why It’s a Dental Emergency?
A tooth that has been knocked out entirely forms a dental emergency. In contrast to a chipped tooth or other minor trauma, a tooth that is totally displaced needs immediate help.
Ideally, that would be within 30 to 60 minutes since it takes a short amount of time for the cells on the root to die once exposed to air and dryness. If you get treatment in time, your natural tooth may be re-implanted back into the socket and saved.
Otherwise, you may miss that opportunity for an artificial tooth at conceivably a larger expense.
Step 1: Don’t Panic
Easier said than done, but it can help you a lot to remain calm. If you’re assisting someone else, indulge him or her by reassuring them and walking them through the next few steps.
If you stay calm, it will allow you to think clearly, make decisions quickly, and not waste valuable time.
Step 2: Find The Tooth
You should quickly locate that tooth and make sure it is together and undamaged. When you pick it up, do so by the crown, which is the white part you see when you smile, and not by the root, which has the specialized tissue that will help reattach it and minimize any damage to those tissue fibers, as they will make it more difficult for the dentist to re-implant the tooth.
Step 3: Rinse It—But Rinse Lightly
If the tooth is dirty, just rinse it in milk or saline solution (either one is fine). Do not rub and do not use soap on the tooth.
If you scrub the tooth or use soap, you’ll destroy the very cellular material (tissue fibers) that will assist your dentist in seating the tooth back into your mouth.
You may be asking, “Why do you put a tooth in milk if it falls out?” Milk does a great job of maintaining the cells on the root, moisture, and alive, without damaging anything.
It is the perfect short-term tooth preservation solution.
Step 4: Try to Reinsert the Tooth
If the individual is conscious and capable, slide the tooth carefully back into its socket. Pick it up by the crown and push it slowly in. Get them to bite down gently on a clean gauze to hold it there.
This is the ideal situation—it leaves the tooth in its natural place until you can receive professional assistance.
Step 5: Keep It Moist
Can’t get it back in? Then the next best thing is to keep it moist. You can:
- Store it in a cup of milk
- Use saline solution
- Place it in the person’s cheek (only if they’re old enough not to swallow it!)
- Use a dental emergency kit if one is available
If you’ve ever wondered how to preserve teeth after they fall out, this is it: avoid dryness at all costs, and act fast.
Step 6: Get to the Dentist Fast
It is not the time for waiting in line for an appointment. The sooner you do something about it, the greater the possibility that the tooth can be salvaged.
Call ahead so they can have you prepared for immediate care and be aware that you are on your way. Be sure to bring the tooth with you, and keep it moist.
You must get to an emergency dentist near you as quickly as possible—ideally within 30 minutes.
What the Dentist Will Do
At the dental office, the dentist will clean the area, inspect the damage, and attempt to reinsert the tooth if it hasn’t already been replaced. A small splint may be used to hold it in place while it heals. A follow-up root canal may be necessary, but that’s far better than losing the tooth for good.
Tooth Trouble? Call Montreux Dental Clinic Smile!
A knocked-out tooth doesn’t necessarily equal permanent loss. With the proper knowledge and rapid action, it is often possible to salvage it.
The steps are simple, but time is critical. So the next time someone yells, “My tooth just came out!”—you’ll know exactly what to do.
When a dental emergency happens, trust the experts at Montreux Dental Clinic to take immediate, professional care of you or your loved ones. Whether you’re looking for a dentist in Aspen or need urgent help, our team is here with the tools and expertise to preserve your natural smile.