5 Steps to Follow If You Knock Out a Tooth

Did you just knock out one of your pearly whites? If so, it can be difficult to know what to do next. You may find yourself panicking about how to quickly get the situation under control. Fortunately, your emergency dentist can help. Continue reading to learn about the steps you should take if you knock out a tooth until your emergency dentist is able to remedy the situation.

Call Your Emergency Dentist

If you knock out a tooth, the first thing you should do is call your emergency dentist. They will be able to assess the damage and determine the best course of treatment. I you are bleeding, apply pressure to the area with a clean cloth or gauze pad for at least 15 minutes. Additionally, if your dentist is not available, you can listen to their voicemail to see if it gives you information about what to do next.

Find & Clean the Tooth

If you can find your tooth, carefully rinse it off with cool, fresh water. Do not scrub the tooth since this could further damage it. Additionally, do not use soap or harsh cleaners. If you cannot find your tooth, you should still see your dentist as soon as possible so they can repair the damage and help you determine the best way to replace it.

Store the Tooth

If you find your tooth, you will need to store it in a safe place. Keep it in a container full of saliva, water, or milk. If you are storing your tooth in milk, make sure to change the milk every few hours. Your dentist will do their best to fit you in for an emergency visit long before then.

You can also tuck the tooth between your gums and cheek or use a special tooth preservation kit. Do not place it back in its socket unless your dentist tells you to.

Clean Your Mouth

After you have found and cleaned your tooth, clean your mouth thoroughly. Brush and floss gently to remove any remaining bacteria. This will help prevent infection. Additionally, if there are any pieces of the tooth loose in your mouth, rinse gently with water to get rid of them.

Keep Your Smile Safe

Avoid biting or chewing on the affected side of your mouth since this can cause increased sensitivity. If there are pieces of the tooth still lodged in the socket, try covering them with dental wax to protect your soft mouth tissues. Additionally, consider taking over-the-counter pain medicine or using a cold compress to help with discomfort.

About the Practice

Premier Walk-In Dental is led by Dr. Sowmya Kumar, a dentist based in Rockledge who has devoted her career to improving patients’ smiles. She does this through a variety of procedures, including emergency treatments to repair unexpected damage, like a knocked-out tooth. Call (321) 617-5901 or visit Premier Walk-In Dental’s website if you are interested in making an appointment with Dr. Sowmya Kumar and her skilled team or to learn more about their emergency dental treatments.