It can happen in an instant: a blow to the mouth so violent, it knocks out a tooth. This is an authentic dental emergency and you need immediate care, like what we offer at David Rice DDS in Elgin IL.
If you venture on to a playing field, even if it’s only for touch football, it can happen. It might also be the result of a household accident. Regardless, if it happens, here it what you should do:
- Find the Tooth
You may be in panic mode, so try to remember asking for help. When you find the tooth, handle it carefully. Keep it in the best condition possible. We may be able to reinsert it. - Don’t Touch the Root!
Remember to NOT touch the tooth by the root. Only hold it by the crown. It’s okay to gently rinse the tooth in water, but don’t scrub it or remove any tissue fragments. This is crucial and bears repeating: do not remove any tissue from the tooth. That bloody goo is valuable. It can help your tooth re-attach. At this point, the best place for the tooth is back in the socket. If you decide to put it there, place it gently. It may not be possible, so don’t force it. - Keep the Tooth Safe
Holding the tooth between the lip and gum or under the tongue is a good option, but be careful you don’t swallow it. If neither of these is possible, place the tooth in a cup of milk, or wrap it in cloth moistened with saliva. - Get To The Dentist ASAP!
Remember, a knocked out tooth is a clear-cut dental emergency, and you’re in a race against the clock. If you receive treatment within an hour, chances are good the tooth can be saved.
At David Rice DDS in Elgin IL we offer restorative dentistry, and patients from Bartlet, South Elgin, and Wayne soothe their dental anxiety with our sedation dentistry services. Request an appointment today!
Contact David A. Rice, DDS:
847-741-2353
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
1972 Larkin Ave #1
Elgin, IL
60123
ArticleID 8157