What Do I Do If I Have A Tooth Knocked Out?
Posted on August 10, 2020
Whether by injury or accident, children and adults can experience a knocked-out tooth. The good news is that the tooth (or teeth) can actually be saved. With quick action, an emergency dentist can save the tooth and successfully replant it with very good long-term outcomes.
Acting quickly means acting within 30 minutes of the mishap to ensure the best results. Seeing a dentist is clearly a priority, but there are some important “tooth-saving steps” before getting an emergency appointment (a tooth can actually be “saved” for an hour or even longer).
Effective “Tooth Saving” Steps When a Tooth is Knocked Out
Dental emergencies are always unexpected and knocked out teeth are no exception. That’s why it’s of great benefit to have a 24-hour emergency dentist in Vaughan. As for a knocked-out tooth, there are some effective steps that can be taken to preserve the tooth prior to an appointment.
Keep the Tooth
When a tooth is knocked out, make sure to pick it up wherever it has landed. You must handle the tooth very carefully, and pick it up by the crown – never touch the root portion of the tooth.
Careful Rinsing
Gently rinse off any dirt or debris by using only water. Don’t use soap or cleaning agents. Don’t scrub the tooth or let it dry out. Above all, don’t wrap the knocked-out tooth in a cloth or tissue.
Reposition Tooth
If it’s possible, reposition the knocked-out tooth back into the empty socket. You can gently push the tooth into place and then carefully close your mouth (gently bite down to support the tooth).
Keep Tooth Moist
A knocked-out tooth must be kept moist. If the tooth can’t be repositioned in the mouth, it can be maintained in milk. Don’t maintain the tooth in regular tap water for an extended period of time.
Emergency Dentist
While these tips are used to help preserve the tooth, it’s best to see an emergency dentist immediately after a mishap. The “preserved” tooth should be brought along to the appointment.
24 Hour Emergency Dentist in Vaughan and Woodbridge
Patients looking for a 24-hour emergency dentist in Vaughan can rely on the Mackenzie Dental Centre for the required urgent care. Patients should bear in mind that immediate care could be the difference between saving a tooth and losing a tooth.
By all accounts, dental emergencies need immediate attention – this will certainly ensure the best long-term outcomes. At the Mackenzie Dental Centre, patients will find a team of experienced dental professionals, expertly led by Dr. Lloyd Pedvis.
In addition to emergency care, Dr. Pedvis also offers a full range of dental services, from regular examinations to the removal of wisdom teeth, to cosmetic procedures. Patients can rest assured that Dr. Pedvis will recommend the best possible treatment.
Patients in Vaughan and Woodbridge can find out more by calling 905-417-8700 or visiting the clinic website at www.mackenziedentalcentre.com. We are open for post-COVID appointments.