Knocking out a tooth can be a distressing experience, whether it happens during sport, a fall, or an unexpected accident. The important thing to remember is that quick action can make all the difference in saving the tooth. Understanding what to do in those crucial moments before reaching an urgent dentist can significantly improve the chances of successful treatment.
Stay calm and act quickly
The first step is to stay as calm as possible. It can be alarming to see a tooth come out completely, but dental professionals are trained to deal with this situation. Try to find the tooth straight away, as time is vital. If handled correctly and treated promptly, a knocked-out tooth can sometimes be saved and re-implanted.
Handle the tooth carefully
When you pick up the tooth, hold it only by the crown, which is the white part that normally shows in your mouth. Avoid touching the root, as this area contains delicate cells that are crucial for reattachment. If the tooth is dirty, gently rinse it with milk or a saline solution. Do not scrub, use soap, or dry it off, as this can damage the tissues needed for healing.
If possible, try to place the tooth back into its socket. Hold it in place gently by biting down on a clean cloth or gauze. This helps keep the tooth stable and protected on your way to an urgent dentist.
If reinserting it is too painful or not possible, the next best option is to keep the tooth moist. Placing it in a small container of milk, saline, or even holding it inside your cheek can help preserve it until you reach professional care. Avoid storing the tooth in plain water, as this can harm the root cells.
Get professional help immediately
Time is critical. Ideally, you should see our emergency dentist in Loughborough within 30 to 60 minutes of the injury. The sooner the tooth is treated, the better the chances of saving it. Dentists can clean the area, reposition the tooth, and stabilise it with a small splint to encourage it to reattach to the bone.
If the tooth cannot be saved, your dentist will discuss replacement options such as dental implants or bridges. Prompt assessment is also important to check for damage to surrounding teeth or gums and to prevent infection.
Caring for the area afterwards
After the initial emergency dental treatment, follow your dentist’s instructions carefully. You may need to eat soft foods for a few days and avoid biting directly on the affected area. Keeping your mouth clean is vital to prevent infection, so gentle brushing and the use of a prescribed mouth rinse may be recommended.
Pain or mild swelling is common after this type of injury. Over-the-counter pain relief can help, but avoid aspirin, as it can increase bleeding. If you notice increased discomfort, swelling, or signs of infection such as fever, contact your emergency dentist Loughborough as soon as possible.
Protecting your teeth in future
Accidents happen, but some steps can reduce the risk of dental trauma. Wearing a custom-made mouthguard during contact sports can prevent many injuries that lead to knocked-out or broken teeth. Avoid using your teeth to open bottles or tear packaging, and take care when walking on slippery surfaces.
It is also important to attend regular dental check-ups. A dentist can spot any underlying issues that may make your teeth more vulnerable to injury, such as gum disease or weakened enamel.
A knocked-out tooth is always a dental emergency, but knowing what to do can make a big difference. Handle the tooth carefully, keep it moist, and seek an urgent dentist immediately. With fast action and professional care, there is often a good chance the tooth can be saved.
For anyone in need of swift and professional treatment, our emergency dentist in Loughborough can provide the right care when it matters most. Get in touch today.
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