Every year, more than 5 million teeth are knocked out (avulsed) due to traumatic injuries. Even though tooth avulsion can be a nerve-racking experience, what you may not know is that with the right care, that tooth can be saved — as long as you know what steps to take.
At Compassionate Endodontists New York/NYC, our team offers skilled, advanced treatment for knocked-out teeth with urgent care services tailored to preserve each patient’s oral health. In this post, learn what to do if your tooth is knocked out.
There’s no denying that losing a tooth is upsetting. Before you do anything, take a moment to calm down and evaluate your situation. Plan on seeking treatment within an hour to maximize the likelihood that the tooth can be saved.
A tooth’s roots are extremely fragile. Even the gentlest touch can injure the roots or transfer germs that can kill cells. If the roots are damaged, the chance of being able to replant it successfully is drastically reduced.
When handling the tooth, only touch the top crown part of the tooth — the upper tooth portion that’s visible above the gumline. Handle the tooth as little as possible, and wash your hands first.
If the tooth has dirt or debris on it, gently rinse it with water to dislodge tiny particles. Don’t scrub or rub the tooth, and don’t use antiseptic gels or hand sanitizer on it.
Your mouth provides the ideal environment for your teeth. If you can, try to place the tooth back into its socket, then bite gently on a clean piece of fabric to help hold it in place. If you can’t put the tooth back in its socket, place it between your gum and cheek to keep it moist. If you can’t do that, put it in a small container of milk or your saliva, and avoid plain water that may contain fluoride or other additives that could harm the root.
Once your tooth is secure, head to our office immediately. If it’s after hours, go to your nearest emergency room. The faster you seek care, the more likely your tooth can be successfully reinserted into its socket.
During your visit, our team will provide you with complete and detailed instructions on how to care for your tooth to protect and preserve it. Because your tooth will be in a healing phase, it’s vitally important to follow those aftercare instructions very carefully. If you have any questions or concerns, you should call our office right away.
If you lose a tooth, damage a tooth, or suffer any type of oral trauma, prompt care is essential for preserving your smile and avoiding more serious problems. To learn how we can help, call 929-229-0255 or book an appointment online at Compassionate Endodontists New York/NYC in New York City today.
