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Oral Surgery Tooth Knocked Out
A knocked-out tooth can often be saved if immediate action is taken. Properly handling the lost tooth and getting to the dentist quickly are crucial for a successful reattachment.
Can A Knocked-Out Tooth Be Saved?
Yes, a knocked-out tooth can often be reattached if prompt and appropriate measures are taken. Immediate action is key to preventing complications such as bone loss, shifting teeth, and the need for expensive restorative procedures. The sooner you can get to a dentist, the better the chances of saving the tooth.
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What To Do If You Have A Knocked-Out Tooth
- Handle the Tooth Carefully: Avoid touching the roots of the tooth. Instead, handle it by the crown (the chewing surface). This minimizes the risk of damaging the delicate root cells necessary for reattachment.
- Clean Gently: Rinse the tooth gently with water or milk to remove dirt. Do not scrub or use soap or chemicals, as this can damage the root cells. If there’s debris, gently rinse it without removing any attached tissue fragments.
- Reinsert the Tooth: If possible, try to reinsert the tooth into its socket. Position it correctly and bite down gently on a piece of gauze or a soft cloth to hold it in place. This helps keep the root in contact with the surrounding bone and tissue.
- Keep the Tooth Moist: If you cannot reinsert the tooth, it’s vital to keep it moist. Place the tooth in a container of milk or hold it in your mouth between your cheek and gums. Avoid storing it in water, which can harm the root cells.
- Contact a Dentist: Seek professional dental help immediately. The quicker you see a dentist, the better the chances that the tooth can be successfully reattached. Most dentists consider this a dental emergency and will see you right away.
FAQ
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How are knocked-out teeth reattached?
The dentist will clean the tooth and the socket, then carefully reposition the tooth. The tooth is typically splinted to adjacent teeth using a special dental material to hold it in place while the roots reattach and heal. In some cases, a root canal treatment may be necessary after the tooth has stabilized.
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Why put a knocked-out tooth in milk?
Milk provides an optimal environment to preserve the tooth’s root cells. It maintains the right pH balance and contains proteins that protect the root surface, enhancing the chances of successful reattachment. Water is not suitable because it can cause the root cells to swell and burst, reducing the chances of successful reattachment.
Learn More About Black Hills Dentures & Implants
If you have more questions about knocked out or damaged teeth or would like to schedule an appointment contact us and we’ll be happy to help.
