Getting a tooth knocked out is a dental emergency. Whether it happens in a sporting mishap or another type of accident, a knocked-out tooth requires immediate action to increase the chances of saving the tooth and preventing complications.
You can rely on the expert providers at Northwoods Dental Group in Columbus, Ohio, when you need urgent dental care. In this blog, they explain what to do if you get a tooth knocked out.
Teeth are incredibly strong, but they aren’t indestructible. A sudden, powerful blow to the mouth might be enough to knock out one or more of your teeth. Each year, many adults and children find themselves in this situation.
Having a tooth knocked out doesn’t mean the tooth is a lost cause. You may be able to save your tooth if action is taken quickly. If your tooth gets knocked out, here’s what you should do.
Find your tooth and pick it up by the crown, which is the part you can see above the gumline. Then rinse it gently with water to remove any dirt or debris. Don’t use soap or chemicals. Plain water is fine.
If possible, reposition your tooth back into its socket. While still holding the crown, and with the root pointing downward, gently push your tooth into its socket. Then gently bite down to hold the tooth in position. However, don’t force the tooth into the socket.
If for some reason you’re unable to reposition the knocked-out tooth back in its socket, put it between your gums and your cheek. If that’s not possible, put it in a container of milk.
Contact Northwoods Dental Group as soon as possible. Getting dental care within 30 minutes of the incident will improve your chances of saving your tooth. While it’s still possible to save a tooth that has been out of its socket for an hour or longer, the chances will diminish as time passes.
While you can’t predict dental emergencies, you can plan for them. If you knock out your tooth, or if someone around you does, acting quickly can help save the tooth. Along with general and cosmetic dentistry, Northwoods Dental Group provides access to emergency dental care to help you when you need it most.
If you need emergency dental care, call 614-347-3291 to reach Northwoods Dental Group. For all other dental issues, book an appointment online or over the phone.
