Accidents happen, and one of the worst is knocking out a tooth. Whether it’s from a fall, sports, or another impact, losing an adult tooth can be painful and alarming. In that moment, knowing what to do can mean the difference between saving and losing the tooth. If you’re facing this situation, don’t panic. You’re not alone.
An emergency dentist in West Edmonton can give you fast, professional care. But here’s something important: what happens if you lose an adult tooth? Here’s what you need to know.
What Happens If You Lose an Adult Tooth?
An adult tooth does not regenerate. Once it’s gone, time is your worst enemy. The longer the tooth is out of the mouth, the less likely it can be saved. Ideally, a knocked-out tooth must be treated within 30 to 60 minutes. Working quickly provides your dentist with the best opportunity for successfully re-inserting it.
A knocked-out tooth also exposes blood vessels and nerves, which can cause pain, bleeding, and infection. That is why proper handling and immediate dental attention are important.
What Should I Do If I Knock My Tooth Out?
Quick and proper action is necessary. Here is a step-by-step guide:
- Stay Calm: Stop any bleeding with a clean cloth or gauze. Take deep breaths to remain concentrated.
- Find the tooth: Handle it by the crown (top part), not the root. Touching the root can damage it.
- Rinse Gently: If it is dirty, rinse the tooth in water for a few seconds. Do not scrub or use soap.
- Reposition If Possible: If possible, try to put it back in its socket and bite down gently.
- Keep It Moist: If reinsertion isn’t possible, place the tooth in milk, saline, or your saliva.
- Consult a dentist immediately: Visit a dental clinic as soon as you can.
If ever you find yourself asking, “What should I do if I knock my tooth out?“, these are the very same steps to take.
Why Time Matters
Once the tooth is out, the clock starts ticking. Cells in the root begin to die within minutes, and after an hour, re-implantation becomes much more difficult. That’s why it’s essential to get help fast.
A dental professional can assess whether the tooth can be saved or if replacement options are needed.
Role of a Dentist
A dentist in West Edmonton is trained to handle dental emergencies like this. They will check if the tooth can be reinserted and stabilized. If not, they’ll discuss other treatments such as bridges or dental implants to replace the missing tooth.
Visiting a local dentist quickly reduces pain, prevents infection, and increases the chances of recovery.
What to Expect After Reimplantation
If the tooth is successfully placed back into the socket, your dentist may splint it to neighbouring teeth for stability. Over time, follow-up visits will ensure healing is on track. Antibiotics may be prescribed, and you’ll be given instructions on how to care for your mouth.
Avoid biting hard foods and keep the area clean. A soft diet is usually recommended for a few days.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here’s a quick list of things not to do:
| Mistake | Why It’s a Problem |
|---|---|
| Touching the root | Can damage cells needed for reattachment |
| Using soap or chemicals | Harms the delicate tissues of the tooth |
| Letting the tooth dry out | Reduces the chance of successful reimplant |
| Waiting too long to see a dentist | Time affects the viability of the tooth |
Avoid these errors to improve the chances of saving your tooth.
Preventing Future Accidents
You can’t predict accidents, but you can take steps to protect your teeth:
- Wear a mouthguard during sports
- Avoid biting on hard objects like ice or pens
- Get regular dental checkups to spot weak teeth
- Follow safety measures at home and work
Taking these steps reduces the risk of dental injuries and helps protect your smile.
Final Thoughts
Losing a tooth is scary, but being prepared makes all the difference. Quick, correct action and a visit to a trusted dental clinic can help you save your tooth and your smile. Remember these steps and don’t hesitate to act if an emergency occurs.
Fast Action Can Save Your Smile
Tooth emergencies require quick thinking and even faster action. By following the steps outlined above and seeking help from experienced dental professionals, you give yourself the best chance for recovery.
Contact Westside Family Dental now for trusted care in any dental emergency.