Cosmetic Dentistry
What should I do if I knock a tooth out?
April 21 2021
More than five million teeth are knocked out every year in children and adults, but what if this happens to you? If this has happened in an injury or accident it doesn’t always mean the tooth is lost for good. It’s common for kids and active adults to get hurt during any form of sports, particularly contact sports. Therefore, it’s important to act fast and take the right action to preserve the tooth where possible. A tooth lost due to an accident has a 90 percent chance of being saved if the correct procedure is followed.
Act quickly
If you act quickly, ideally within the first 30 minutes, you can increase the chances of saving the tooth. Firstly, ensure that you have collected any broken pieces of tooth, secondly find a dentist and book in for a repair. Also, it’s important to handle the tooth carefully, never touch the root of the tooth, only the crown. Then, try to lick the tooth clean if it’s dirty, or rinse it in water. If possible, put it back into position (adult teeth only); never try to re-insert a baby tooth. Then, to hold the tooth in place bite on a handkerchief. If you can’t put the tooth back in position, put it in milk and see a dentist immediately.
What if I can’t find my tooth?
If you can’t find your tooth, all is not lost. There are many treatments that can help to fill the space such as a Denture, bridge, an implant, or composite bonding. However, not everyone needs treatment, some people are happy with a gap depending on where it is. The best thing to do is speak with your dentist and decide which option is best for you.
Take a look at the wide range of cosmetic dental treatments we offer at Newmarket Road Dental practice.
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