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Spanish What If I’ve Knocked Out a Tooth?
Dr. Amelia Aristodemo stresses immediate action for a knocked-out tooth and offers solutions to replace a tooth that cannot be saved.
When you experience the unfortunate event of knocking out a tooth, taking immediate and proper action can significantly increase the chances of saving the tooth. Here’s what you should do:
1. Handle the Tooth Carefully: Pick up the tooth by the crown (the chewing surface) and not the root to avoid damaging the cells necessary for reattachment.
2. Clean the Tooth If Necessary: If the tooth is dirty, gently rinse it with water. Avoid scrubbing it or using any soap or chemicals.
3. Try to Reinsert the Tooth: If possible, try to place the tooth back into its socket. Gently push it in with your fingers, or position it above the socket and close your mouth slowly. However, this should not be attempted with baby teeth, as it could damage the developing permanent tooth.
4. Keep the Tooth Moist: If reinserting the tooth isn’t possible, keep it moist at all times. You can place it in milk, use a tooth preservation product, or keep it in your mouth beside your cheek. Avoid storing the tooth in water, as this can damage the root surface cells.
5. See a Dentist Immediately: Time is of the essence. Try to see a dentist within 30 minutes of the injury. The sooner the tooth is reimplanted, the higher the chance it can be saved.
In cases where the tooth cannot be saved, there are still options available for restoring your smile. One such option is the placement of a mini dental implant. Mini dental implants can be an effective, same-day solution for areas where teeth have been lost or damaged. They offer a quick and less invasive alternative to traditional implants, with a shorter recovery time.
If you or someone you know has knocked out a tooth, please reach out to us as soon as possible. Our team is prepared to provide the urgent care needed to save the tooth or discuss alternative solutions, such as mini dental implants, to restore the affected area. Don’t hesitate to give us a call; we’re here to help.
