A knocked-out tooth, also known as an avulsed tooth, is a dental emergency that requires quick and careful action. This type of injury, often requiring dental trauma treatment, can be frightening, but knowing the right steps to take can make a significant difference in saving the tooth.
For root canal therapy in Ellicott City, trust Access Endodontics. Call 410.304.7226 or connect with us online to schedule an appointment.
Immediate Steps to Take When a Tooth Is Knocked Out
1. Stay Calm and Act Fast
When a tooth gets knocked out, it’s natural to feel panicked. However, staying calm and acting quickly is vital. The chances of saving the tooth are highest within the first 30 minutes after the injury.
2. Locate the Tooth
Find the knocked-out tooth as soon as possible. Handle the tooth carefully, picking it up by the crown (the part of the tooth that is visible in the mouth) and avoid touching the root. The root is delicate, and any damage can decrease the chances of successful reattachment.
3. Rinse the Tooth Gently
If the tooth is dirty, rinse it gently with milk or saline solution. If neither is available, you can use water but do not scrub or use soap. Avoid using any cleaning agents, as they can harm the root cells.
4. Attempt to Reinsert the Tooth
If possible, try to place the tooth back into its socket immediately. To do this, gently push the tooth into the socket with your fingers and hold it in place. Once in, bite down softly on a piece of gauze or a clean cloth to keep it stable.
5. Keep the Tooth Moist
If reinserting the tooth isn’t an option, it’s crucial to keep the tooth moist until you reach the dentist or endodontist. Place the tooth in a container with milk or a saline solution. If these are unavailable, keep the tooth in your mouth between the cheek and gums. Avoid storing the tooth in water as it can damage the root cells.
6. Seek Immediate Dental Treatment
Get to a dentist or an endodontist as quickly as possible. Time is of the essence, and the sooner you receive professional treatment, the better the chances of saving the tooth. Inform the dental office about the situation so they can prepare for immediate attention upon your arrival.
Why Prompt Action and Treatment Are Important
Prompt action helps maintain the viability of the knocked-out tooth. The cells on the root of the tooth are sensitive and can die if they dry out or are damaged. Keeping the tooth moist and minimizing handling of the root increases the likelihood that the tooth can be successfully reattached.
A knocked-out tooth can lead to several complications if not treated quickly. Missing teeth can cause issues with chewing, speaking, and alignment of surrounding teeth. Additionally, it can result in bone loss at the site of the missing tooth, affecting overall oral health.
An endodontist will assess the extent of the injury and decide on the best course of action. Treatment may include repositioning and stabilizing the tooth using a splint, which is a wire or plastic device attached to the neighboring teeth to hold the knocked-out tooth in place. Sometimes root canal therapy is needed. They may also provide antibiotics to prevent infection and follow-up care to ensure the tooth heals properly.
Contact Access Endodontics for Root Canal Therapy in Ellicott City
Knowing how to treat a knocked-out tooth can significantly impact the outcome of this dental emergency. Quick and proper action can save the tooth and prevent further complications. For more information on root canal therapy and other treatment options, contact Access Endodontics online or by calling 410.304.7226. Our team of experienced professionals is here to provide expert care and guidance when you need it most.