Adult teeth are meant to last a lifetime, but accidents, sports injuries, or other challenges sometimes result in a tooth becoming loose or knocked out (known as avulsion). Is this an emergency? What can you do? When should you seek professional help? Let’s answer these important questions.
Loose Teeth
Teeth become loose for various reasons, including infection, bone loss, illness, orthodontic treatments, or side effects from medications. If you notice a tooth feels loose or seems to be shifting on its own, it’s crucial to have a dentist examine it right away. One common treatment is to use a splint or wire bracket to stabilize the tooth while the bone and gum tissue heal.
Knocked-Out Teeth (Avulsion)
If a tooth has been completely knocked out of its socket, it’s definitely a dental emergency—but quick action increases the chances of saving the tooth. Even if the tooth is broken, your dentist at the Placerville Dental Group may be able to repair or reimplant it, but time is critical. After 30 minutes, the likelihood of a successful reimplantation decreases, so call a dentist as soon as the injury occurs.
Steps to Take for an Intact Tooth:
- Gently rinse the tooth with clean water but avoid scrubbing or scraping it.
- Handle the tooth by the crown (top), not the root.
- If possible, carefully reinsert the tooth into its socket and gently bite down on a gauze pad to hold it in place.
- If reinserting the tooth isn’t possible, keep it between your cheek and gums to maintain moisture and warmth until you get to the dentist.
Steps for a Broken Tooth or Fragments:
- Collect all fragments and place them in a plastic bag with a small amount of whole milk or saliva to keep them moist.
- This method can also be used for a whole tooth if it can’t be placed in the socket or mouth.
- Contact the Placerville Dental Group at (530) 444-5322 for urgent care.
Treatment Options for Avulsed Teeth
If the tooth that was lost is a baby tooth, it might be best to leave the gap until the permanent tooth comes in. However, if it’s an adult tooth, and we are unable to save the tooth, you don’t have to live with the gap! The Placerville Dental Group offers several solutions for replacing missing teeth, including dental implants and bridges. With years of experience, we ensure that the loss of a tooth won’t compromise your smile or the functionality of your mouth.
You don’t have to wait for a dental emergency to learn more about tooth loss and replacement options. Give us a call, book an appointment online, or ask us about it at your next checkup. Keep smiling with the help of the Placerville Dental Group!
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