Roughly over five million people get a knocked-out tooth every year. That’s a lot of teeth! And one of the main questions people ask is: Can I put the tooth back in its place? Luckily, you just might be able to, but it’s important to know when you can and the next steps to take to preserve it. Keep reading to learn what to do if you have a knocked-out tooth in Frisco.
Can I Put Back My Knocked-Out Tooth?
If you ever have a knocked-out tooth, it’s vital that you keep it moist and in your mouth. Your teeth are not meant to be exposed to dry air, and so putting it back in its socket is a good idea. You also have to ensure it’s completely intact and the roots are not damaged. If so, this could spell further injury to both your tooth and the socket.
In case you aren’t able to place it comfortably in its place, you can at least hold it in your mouth between your cheek and gums. Doing so will provide the dampness it requires. Of course, this is only temporary, as you should immediately visit your dentist to save it.
How Can I Save the Tooth?
The first steps for saving your tooth begins right after it’s knocked out. If someone is with you, they can call your dentist to inform them of your emergency. Afterwards, you’ll want to ensure your tooth is handled gently and safely. The following are a few measures for protecting your tooth:
- Handle with Care: Your tooth’s root is essential for its health, so be careful not to grab or touch it when picking it up. Always handle the tooth by the chewing side.
- Clean the Tooth: Gently rinse off any dirt or debris with water, but do not dry it off with a towel. For the root to survive, it needs to remain moist.
- Preserve its Moisture: The best way to maintain moisture is to place the tooth in its socket. If you can’t, try submerging it in milk, either in a cup or Ziploc bag. This can protect the cells in the tooth long enough for you to see your dentist.
- See Your Dentist: Once you’re able to visit your dentist, they can see if your tooth is in good enough condition to save and reinstall in your mouth. They’ll also check if any other teeth were damaged and provide the necessary treatment.
With these steps, you can ensure your tooth has a higher chance of being saved! Even if you’re not able to place it back, your dentist might still have treatment options to restore your smile.
About the Practice
Plush Dentistry provides outstanding modern dental services for all patients in Frisco, TX and the surrounding neighborhoods. With a passion for creating perfect smiles using state-of-the-art technologies, your dentists offer a variety of treatments, including emergency care for a knocked-out tooth. If you need to schedule an appointment, visit their website or call (469) 850-0786.