Knocked out tooth? What do I do?

Accidents happen, we all know that. And they can happen so fast. Unfortunately, a knocked out tooth is a common consequence.

Amongst all the first aid tips and tricks parents need to have up their sleeve, it’s good to know how to save teeth. Don’t wait until there’s an emergency, read on now, so you’ll know what to do if you ever need to know.

• Dental emergency information

There are three things to think about:

• Prevention – be vigilant to step in and stop an accident happening that may cause tooth loss
• Response – know what to do at the scene of an accident to help save a tooth
• Follow up – find out what a dentist can do to restore a tooth

Prevention first!

We all want to be out and about, doing things. Perhaps the kids are running around in a place they don’t know well, or they’re riding bikes for the first time,  or trying some new moves on a climbing wall.

But it’s not just children who lose their teeth! It happens to adults too. There’s a tackle that’s closer to the goal post than you thought, a turn on a skateboard not practised in ten years or a wheelie on your daughter’s bike.

• Be aware of limitations. Speak up or take action before it’s too late.
• Ask your dentist about getting a custom fitted gum shield/mouth guard, like the professionals wear.

The accident happens – how to respond.

What’s it like?

• Blood will go everywhere! Mouth injuries bleed a lot. A knocked out tooth is messy and usually looks a lot scarier than it really is.
• Someone must calm the victim – and remember, it’s not as bad as it looks.
• Everyone else needs to get down on their hands and knees and find that tooth!

It’s possible to replant a tooth that has been knocked out, so long as it’s not too damaged. Usually baby teeth aren’t replanted though. The thing is to find the tooth, protect it and get dental assistance as soon as possible.

Knocked out tooth?

First aid tips to remember:

• apply pressure to the tooth site, with some clean gauze to control the bleeding
• use a cold compress to control swelling
• put the tooth in a container covered with a little cow’s milk or saliva
• only touch the crown of the tooth, not the root.
• an adult or young adult may be able to store the tooth between the gum and lip. But don’t swallow it!
• call your dental surgery for help

How can my dentist help later?

Your dentist will try to save the tooth, and so long as there’s not too much damage the process can be successful.

• If a tooth is chipped, it can be rebuilt with composite filling material
• A  piece broken from a tooth can be reattached, so long as the broken fragment and tooth are in good condition. A crown or veneer may be an alternative solution.
• In the case of a knocked out tooth, or teeth, that can’t be replanted, your dentist will explain alternative restorative treatments, such as a bridge, dentures, or implant.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

In a dental emergency, acting quickly can help save the tooth!

Further reading:

• Teens, exams and wisdom teeth
• Can I change my smile?
• NHS tips for dealing with a knocked out tooth

Useful Links & Information