Losing a tooth can be a scary experience. But if it happens to you, it doesn’t necessarily mean your tooth is lost for good. You can lose a tooth one of two ways – either from some traumatic event, such as a sports injury or accident or from tooth decay.
Either way, it is essential that you act quickly to protect your smile and prevent any further damage.
Tooth Loss Due to Trauma
For tooth loss due to trauma, a skilled dentist or endodontist can often save your tooth by replanting it into the socket. Remember the following steps to increase the chances of successfully reattaching your tooth:
- Pick up the tooth by the crown (the chewing surface). Do not touch the root.
- If necessary, carefully rinse the tooth with clean tap water. Do not use any soap or other chemicals.
- Attempt to reposition the tooth back into the socket, if possible. If it will not go in easily:
- Place the tooth in milk.
- Place the tooth in saliva by spitting it into a container.
- Or hold the tooth in your cheek until you see the dentist.
- If the tooth goes back into the socket, bite down gently on a clean washcloth to hold it in place.
- Visit a dentist or endodontist, ideally within 30 minutes of injury.
Tooth Loss Due to Tooth Decay and Gum Disease
If your tooth loss is due to decay, you should still see a dentist immediately. In addition to replacing your tooth, your dentist will also need to prevent the decay from spreading to other teeth and causing more significant damage. Once the infection is under control, you can start taking steps to achieve a healthier, beautiful smile.
Hampden Dental Group: How We Can Help
If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, such as a loose or missing tooth, you shouldn’t have to wait days before seeing a dentist. At Hampden Dental Group, we offer emergency dental services with our team of dentists, oral surgeons, and orthodontists so that we can resolve your issues and restore your smile in just one visit.
If you need to schedule an emergency appointment, please call the office today.