Knocked-Out Tooth
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Knocked-Out Tooth Warrnambool
It is common — for kids, and also for adults — to be injured from playing sports, particularly contact sports.
Unfortunately, the most affected area is the face — making sports-related injuries a major link between sports and dentistry.
These injuries can range from minor chips to tooth loss.
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What to Do If a Tooth is Knocked Out?
A knocked-out tooth is one of the most common dental emergencies in Warrnambool.
A knocked-out tooth is more severe than other dental problems because treatment takes time.
Get to a water source and rinse the crown as soon as you find the tooth.
For Baby Teeth
These teeth start falling out naturally at about age 6 or 7. If a tooth is knocked out earlier by accident – leave it. Never try to put it back, as this may damage the adult tooth growing underneath.
The adult tooth will grow eventually. Give some paracetamol mixture or ibuprofen if the injured gum is sore.
If the tooth is chipped or damaged, it may need the attention of a dentist. Any chipped or cracked teeth may cause cuts inside the mouth.
For Permanent Teeth
These are most commonly knocked out in older children and adults.
If one of these teeth is knocked out, it is important that:
- It should be placed back into its socket immediately; and
- You should then see a dentist immediately to secure the tooth. This should be done within an hour of the injury.
An adult may be able to plant the tooth back into its socket.
- Do not delay this. Do not wait to see a dentist.
- If the tooth is clean, do it right away and then seek dental help.
- Handle the tooth by the crown (the shiny white part normally seen in the mouth) and not the root. The root has fragile cells needed to attach to the tooth, so try not to touch this part.
- Take care to get the tooth the right way around.
- Once replanted, get the injured person to bite gently on a clean cloth until seen by a dentist.
Knocked-Out Tooth Prevention
Follow these tips to prevent broken or knocked-out teeth:
- Wear a mouthguard when playing any contact sports or recreational activities.
- Avoid fights that may cause blows to the face.
- Avoid biting on hard foods, such as bones, stale bread, tough bagels and unpopped popcorn kernels.
- Always wear a seatbelt.
Warrnambool Dental has helped many patients deal with their anxiety and has given them the treatment they need and deserve.
Despite what you may think or the state of your teeth, it’s never too late to see a dentist.
Most people suffering from anxiety are relieved to discover that dental treatment is not as bad as they imagined and are all too happy to continue treatment and regularly visit us after seeing and understanding the benefits of going to the dentist.
We are here to help you answer these & more questions thoroughly.
Call Warrnambool Dental.
A smile can open doors and change lives.
(03) 5562 4433
Frequently Asked Questions
About Knocked-Out Tooth
How soon should I see a dentist after I lose a tooth?
Immediately the accident happens. Getting to your Warrnambool dentist within 30 minutes can make the difference between saving or losing your tooth.
Why do I need to soak the tooth in milk
Milk is best for storing knocked-out teeth since the cells from the root surface don’t swell up and burst like they do when submerged in water.
Will the tooth need any special or additional treatment?
The type of injury, how quickly you got treatment, what treatment was performed, and how your body responded to the treatment are the factors in the tooth’s long-term health.
However, resorption happens. As your body heals, it may reject even your own tooth, so it is important to follow up with your Warrnambool dentist regularly after the injury to keep track of your healing.
Can I put a knocked-out baby tooth back in?
No, you should not attempt to do so. As adult teeth erupt, baby teeth fall out on their own. Instead, comfort the child and visit a dentist to assess the situation.
How long do I have to replant a knocked-out permanent tooth?
Replanting a permanent tooth within one hour of being knocked out is crucial to improving the chances of successful reattachment. The sooner, the better!
Can I touch the root of the knocked-out tooth?
Avoid touching the root of the knocked-out tooth, as it contains delicate cells that help the tooth reattach. Always handle the tooth by the crown (the visible part of the tooth).
What if I can't put the tooth back into the socket?
If you cannot replant the tooth, rinse it off, put it in a cup of milk or saline solution, and consult a dentist as soon as possible. With prompt treatment, the tooth may still be able to be saved.
How can I prevent a tooth from being knocked out?
If you are participating in a sport or activity where your face is vulnerable to contact, you should wear a mouthguard. Avoid biting on hard foods, and always wear a seatbelt in a vehicle.
Is it too late to save my knocked-out tooth if I wait to see the dentist?
The best chance of saving your tooth is to see a dentist as soon as possible, ideally within an hour. Delaying treatment may result in the tooth not being able to be saved.
Will my dentist be able to help if I have dental anxiety about a knocked-out tooth?
Yes! Your Warrnambool dentist can provide support to ease any anxiety. Many patients are surprised that dental treatment for a knocked-out tooth is not as painful as they may have feared.
Can a knocked-out tooth be saved even if it's dirty or damaged?
While it’s always better to replant the tooth as soon as possible and in a clean state, a dentist will still assess the tooth and may be able to save it even if it is slightly damaged or dirty.
What are the next steps after I get to the dentist with a knocked-out tooth?
Once the dentist evaluates the tooth, they may replant it in the socket. While awaiting further treatment, you might be asked to bite gently on a clean cloth. Your Warrnambool dentist will guide you through the necessary steps to ensure the best outcome.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Dr Nishant Hurria
Dr Nishant Hurria is an Australian-based health professional and the principal dentist of Warrnambool Dental with a special interest in Crowns & Bridges and Dental Implants.