Each one of your teeth is held in place by a series of strong periodontal ligaments. There are times when a hard blow to the face can impact with such force that it partially severs these ligaments and effectively knocks out a tooth. This is always a traumatic event. The oral healthcare team at Dental Associates of Manchester offers these basic tips for providing quality first aid.
If there is blood or debris in your mouth, you can rinse it away and soothe the injured tissues with lukewarm saltwater. This will help you get a clear view of the damage to your mouth.
We might be able to implant the tooth back into the socket. Â However, for this to have any hope of success, the tooth must be whole and alive. Â
Assuming it is whole, the tooth can be kept alive by holding it between your cheek and gums. There are also tooth-preservation products available in stores. This is a container filled with a specially formulated nourishing gel. To use it, you simply place the knocked-out tooth in the jar and seal it. The nourishing gel will keep it alive for a short time while your dentist examines and treats the situation.
If any part of the tooth, root or nerve remain in the socket, your dentist will most likely have to extract the remainder of the knocked-out tooth. Once your gums have healed, we can help you select the restoration option that best suits you.
If one of your teeth has been knocked out, please call Dental Associates of Manchester at 563-927-4746 to seek urgent treatment from your dentist, Dr. Timothy Collier. Â