Losing a tooth can be rather frightening. Fortunately, with focus and quick, decisive action, you can help save your natural!
If you’ve knocked out a tooth, the first thing to remember is to try and stay calm. Once you’ve taken a couple of deep breaths to clear your mind, follow these steps to maximize the chances of successful reimplantation.
- Locate the tooth. Once you’ve got it, handle it carefully, only touching the crown (top part of the tooth) to prevent damaging the delicate root tissue. If the tooth is dirty, gently rinse it with water—no scrubbing or soap!
- If possible, put the tooth back in its socket in your mouth, cover it with gauze or a clean cloth, and gently bite down to keep it in place.
- If you cannot reinsert the tooth into its socket, keep it moist by putting it in a container of milk or saliva (by holding it inside your cheek). Avoid storing it in water, as this can harm the cells needed for reattachment.
- Get to the dentist ASAP! Time is of the essence! For the best shot at saving the tooth, get to an emergency dentist within 30 minutes. If it takes longer, the dentist will still try to save the tooth and, regardless, will provide crucial treatment to the affected area.
Find Immediate Help for a Dental Emergency in Prairieville, LA
If you’re in Prairieville and looking for an experienced and empathetic emergency dentist for immediate care—for a knocked-out tooth or any other dental emergency—contact Dr. Daniel Palm the friendly and knowledgeable Palm Family Dental team to schedule an appointment!