Tooth loss is a common problem that can lead to a host of oral health issues, and many people accidentally knock out their pearly whites when riding a bike or playing sports or simply due to tripping and falling. Thankfully, your dentist is trained and equipped to reimplant dislodged teeth if you get it to the office in time. Here’s a quick guide to why you probably won’t be able to reimplant a knocked-out tooth on your own and how your dentist can keep your smile complete and healthy for years to come.
Can I Fix My Dislodged Tooth on My Own?
A live tooth knocked out of its socket will be in shock and quite vulnerable to further damage, and it is quite unlikely that attempting to reimplant a dislodged pearly white on your own will lead to it successfully reintegrating with your oral tissues. However, placing a dislodged tooth back in its socket can be a great way to keep it nourished and safe while you are transporting it to your dentist’s office.
What Should I Do if My Tooth Is Dislodged?
A dislodged tooth is at immediate risk of being lost permanently, and its chances of being successfully reimplanted will begin to fall sharply after about thirty minutes. As soon as your tooth is knocked out, locate it and secure it by handling it by the crown portion only. Touching the root or exposing it to harsh cleaning agents can damage its vulnerable tissues, so clean it by swishing it about in a bowl of lukewarm water if it is dirty. Then, store it by placing it back in its socket, in a vessel with saliva or milk, or an ADA-approved tooth preservation kit.
When the tooth is ready for transport, contact your dentist’s office to explain the situation and let them know you are coming. It’s always best to get to the practice as soon as possible to maximize your chances of successful reimplantation.
How Can My Dentist Address a Dislodged Tooth?
If your dentist is able to treat the tooth in time and it is still in viable condition when it gets to the office, they may be able to reimplant your pearly white back in its place and encourage it to reintegrate with the gum and bone tissues. However, a tooth that cannot be saved will have to be replaced, and your dentist will be happy to discuss your restoration options such as a bridge, denture, or implant.
Don’t let tooth loss deprive you of a complete and healthy smile. Knowing what to do in the case of a dislodged tooth can help you reach the best possible outcome.
About the Author
Dr. Robert A. Rosenbaum earned his dental degree at the Georgetown University School of Dentistry and refines his skills further with continuing education coursework. He is also a proud member of the American Dental Association and the California Dental Association. His office in Modesto offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry. If you have dislodged a tooth, dial (209) 526-9132. For non-emergency inquiries, contact his practice online.