While you might think that knocking one’s own teeth out isn’t a situation that’s common, it actually is. Over 5 million teeth are knocked out each and every year, and that’s the combined number between children and adults. Dentists are well aware of this and have implemented ways to help those who are dealing with knocked-out teeth.
That said, if you’ve recently knocked out one or more of your teeth, you know that it can be a scary and overwhelming experience. You might think that this is the end for your teeth, and now you have to deal with a missing tooth forever. Fortunately, that’s not the case! There are steps you can take to help save your tooth and minimize the damage it has already sustained, allowing your dentist to place your knocked-out tooth or teeth back in to restore your smile.
But of course, in such a situation, time is of the essence. To help you minimize time wasted to stand a much better chance of putting your knocked-out permanent tooth back to where it belongs, here are a couple of things you must do:
1. Find the Tooth
The first thing you must do is to find the tooth. If it is still intact, pick it up by the crown (the white part) and try to avoid touching the root. If the tooth is dirty, rinse it off with a small amount of cool water.
2. Try to Reposition the Tooth
If the tooth is still intact, gently reposition it back into the socket using your finger or a clean washcloth. Do not force the tooth into the socket, as this can further damage both the root of your teeth and your gums.
3. Preserve the Tooth
If you are unable to reposition the tooth, the best way to preserve it is to put it into a cup of milk or a container of salt water. This will help to keep the root of the tooth hydrated and keep the cells alive. Of course, your teeth won’t last forever in this, but it will help lengthen the time you have to put it back later.
4. Seek Professional Help
As soon as possible, you should seek professional help from a dentist or endodontist. We highly recommend doing this within 30 minutes, if at all possible, for the highest chances of success. Generally, if you can reposition the tooth, your dentist may be able to splint it back into place. If not, don’t fret. Some procedures can restore your teeth, with or without your permanent teeth.
5. Take Care of Yourself
Regardless of the outcome of your tooth, it is important to take care of yourself. This means resting, eating a nutritious diet, and avoiding activities that may cause further damage to the tooth, such as grinding your teeth.
Conclusion
Knocking out your permanent teeth is never fun to experience. Not only can it be incredibly painful, but the thought of losing one’s teeth can be a truly terrifying one. Fortunately, with the right timely action, you can save it! If you find your teeth knocked out, or have someone with you that knocked out their teeth, be sure to follow the steps we’ve shared above for the best possible chances of putting the teeth back where it belongs.
Danvers Aesthetic Family Dentistry offers a variety of dental services, including but not limited to bone grafting, restorative treatment, and tooth extractions. If you are looking for an emergency dentist in Danvers, get in touch with us immediately!