22/06/2021
AVULSED tooth?
What Should You Do When You Get a Tooth Knocked Out?
The most important thing you can do after a tooth gets knocked out is to get to the dentist as quickly as you can. But, during the time in between the accident and the dentist, it’s vital to avoid damaging the tooth even more.
Here are some suggestions from the American Association of Endodontists to improve the chances of saving your tooth:
• Handle the tooth carefully. Always hold the tooth by the crown, or the chewing surface of the tooth. The crown is the upper part of the tooth that is normally exposed and is protected by enamel. Do not to touch the root of the tooth (the part that was under the gumline). It is sensitive and can be easily damaged.
• If the tooth is dirty, rinse it with water. Use water to rinse the dirty tooth off. Don’t wipe off the tooth to dry or wrap it up after you rinse it, as that could damage the tooth.
• Gently try to slip the tooth back into its socket. In many cases, the tooth will slip right back into the socket. Before trying to put it back in, make sure the tooth is facing the right way. Don’t try to force the tooth into the socket, this will only irritate the area. If it doesn’t go back into place easily, try your best to keep the tooth moist while you make your way to the dentist.
• Keep the tooth moist. It's very important that the tooth stay moist at all times. If you can't place it back into the socket, keep the tooth moist in milk, in your mouth next to your cheek, or in an emergency tooth preservation kit. However, don't use regular tap water to keep the tooth moist. Tap water isn't good for the root surface cells for an extended period of time.
• See your dentist as soon as possible. Perhaps the most important thing you can do if your tooth gets knocked out is to book an emergency dental appointment with your dentist or endodontist immediately, preferably within 30 minutes of the injury. However, a tooth can be saved if it is out of your mouth for an hour.
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