The unfortunate incident of having a tooth knocked out can be very unfortunate. However, there are a few different ways to minimize the damages. It’s important to know what to do when a situation like this arises. It can also help if you have a fire for family member who has had their tooth knocked out. Knowing what to do in a situation such as this can be very valuable.
In this article we’re going to cover what you need to do immediately following your tooth being knocked out, as well as some information regarding what your dentist will do to repair the tooth.
Remember, it’s important to act immediately following an event such as this.
What do I need to do when my tooth is knocked out?
The moment that your tooth gets knocked out all of the surrounding tissues and blood vessels become damaged too. The younger you are the better the odds of saving you tooth, however regardless of your age you should do everything in your power.
Of course, it’s important to do your best to get to a dentist as soon as the event occurs, however this might not always be an option. If you want to increase your chances of saving the tooth make sure you do the following things:
- Try to handle the tooth as carefully as possible. Make sure not to touch the root of your teeth, which is the portion that was attached to your gums.
- If the tooth fell on the ground and is dirty make sure that you soak the tooth in milk or water. Whatever you do do not wipe the tooth clean with a washcloth or any other fabric, this could lead to permanent tooth damage.
- Try to keep the tooth as moist as possible. Keeping the tooth moist will help to salvage it. Your tooth will keep the best in a cup of milk, or even in your own mouth if you can avoid swallowing it. If you can’t keep it in your mouth, or don’t have milk available you can keep in in a cup of saliva or a glass of water.
- However, before you try to keep the tooth in a glass of milk or another liquid see if you can fit the tooth back into its socket. If it goes right back in then you should be safe, if not then you’ll want to keep it in a cup of one of the above mentioned liquids.
What will a dentist do to repair my knocked out tooth?
If possible, you should try to visit a dentist within an hour of the accident occurring, this will increase your chances of the tooth being saved.
Most likely, the dentist will flush your tooth socket with water and attempt to re-insert the tooth. Depending on your circumstance your dentist may suggest a root canal now, or operate later. It simply depends on the severity of your injury.
After you’ve had a procedure it’s important to do everything you can to ensure that you don’t injure you tooth again. You’ll want to make sure you stay safe for at least a few months following.
I hope this article has been valuable and will come in handy, if this unfortunate incident is to occur. It’s important to act as quickly as possible when an event such as this arises, it can make the difference between saving your tooth and having to get a replacement tooth.
Sources: www.colgate.com
Originally posted 2013-12-10 16:55:42.