A tooth getting knocked out of your mouth is a shocking, unexpected event. It could happen while playing your favorite sport, or it might even be the result of a simple accident like walking into a post or a glass door. No matter when and how the tooth is lost, however, it’s important for you to take good care of it if you want an emergency dentist to successfully replant it. And in many cases, “taking good care of it” means trying to put it back in its socket if you can. Keep reading to learn exactly what you should do with a knocked-out tooth.
Is It Possible to Put a Lost Tooth Back in the Mouth?
In many cases, yes, you should be able to put the tooth back in its socket. In fact, it’s highly recommended that you do so in order to try and preserve the living cells still on the root so that the dentist has the best chance of replantation possible. That said, there may be times when you are unable to reinsert the tooth due to the nature of the injury or the way it was knocked out. In any case, it’s essential to preserve the tooth and schedule an appointment as soon as possible.
How to Put a Tooth Back in Its Socket
First, pick up the tooth by the crown. Never touch the root; you might inadvertently kill any living cells remaining on it. These cells are necessary if the tooth is to reconnect with the jaw. Check for spots of dirt, and gently rinse them off under lukewarm water. Do not try to scrub it or clean it with any kind of disinfectant. Again this could do irreparable damage to the living cells. Once the tooth is clean, it’s safe to try and put it back in place.
To hold a lost tooth in its socket, bite down softly on a napkin or a handkerchief. This should keep it safely in place until your appointment. Avoid eating or chewing at all before receiving professional dental treatment.
How Much Time Do You Have?
If the cells on the root of the tooth die, reconnecting it will become impossible. It’s recommended that you get to a dental practice in less than an hour so that your dentist can help properly reposition and reattach the tooth. In short, the sooner you can get help, the better.
Losing a tooth might initially seem like a devastating event, but if you stay calm, act quickly, and get in touch with your dentist as soon as possible, you may still be able to keep your natural smile fully intact. Be ready to act immediately once you realize there’s suddenly a gap in your grin.
About the Author
Dr. Rajiv Shekhadiya earned his Bachelor of Dental Surgery from the Government Dental College and Hospital in Ahmedabad, India before moving to the United States, where he received a Doctor of Dental Surgery from New York University. He is a compassionate dentist who always strives to keep his patients comfortable, even in the midst of an emergency. Call (469) 892-6647 to get in touch with him at Celebration Family Dental if you lose a tooth. If you’d like to set up a consultation or checkup, visit his website.