Losing a tooth due to an accident can be a traumatic experience and we understand the urgency and importance of proper care for a knocked-out tooth.
This guide, provided by Dr. James Kim and our team at our Del Rey Oaks dental office, will explain the steps you should take and how we can help. If you’re in the Monterey area and need immediate assistance, please call us at (831) 920-6900.
Understanding Knocked-Out Teeth
When a tooth is knocked out, it’s crucial to act quickly. The tooth is held in place by the periodontal ligament, a vital tissue that connects the tooth to the bone, providing blood supply and nerve sensation. When a tooth is avulsed (knocked out), some periodontal cells often remain on the root. These cells are essential for regeneration and reattachment. However, the longer the tooth remains outside the socket, the higher the risk of these cells drying out and dying. This is why time is of the essence when dealing with a knocked-out tooth.
Immediate Steps for a Knocked-Out Tooth
The chances of saving a knocked-out tooth significantly increase if it’s reinserted within 5-20 minutes. Here’s what you should do:
- Find the Tooth: Carefully pick up the tooth by the crown (the visible part), avoiding touching the root. The delicate periodontal cells are located there.
- Clean the Tooth: Gently rinse the tooth with clean water to remove any debris.
- Reinsert the Tooth: Hold the tooth by the crown and carefully insert the root into the empty socket. Apply gentle but firm pressure.
- Secure the Tooth: Place a clean gauze or cloth between the reinserted tooth and the opposing tooth in the other jaw. Have the injured person bite down gently to hold the tooth in place.
- Seek Dental Care Immediately: Contact us at Stone Creek Village Dentistry in Del Rey Oaks, CA at (831) 920-6900 or visit an emergency dental facility as soon as possible.
What if You Can’t Reinsert the Tooth?
If you’re unable to reinsert the tooth, the next best option is to keep it moist. Place the tooth in a container of milk. Milk is an excellent storage medium for avulsed teeth. If milk isn’t immediately available, head to the nearest store to get some. Every minute matters!
Visit a family dentist in Monterey, CA
Once you’ve taken the initial steps, it’s vital to seek professional dental care from a dentist in Monterey, CA like Dr. James Kim at Stone Creek Village Dentistry. We will take X-rays to ensure the tooth is correctly positioned. We may also splint the tooth to stabilize it while it heals. Depending on the patient’s age and the circumstances, a root canal might be necessary within a couple of weeks to prevent infection and improve the tooth’s long-term prognosis. Even if the tooth has been out of the socket for several hours, we may still attempt to replant it. A replanted tooth, even if it doesn’t last a lifetime, can provide valuable time, especially for younger patients whose jaws are still developing.
Protecting Against Future Injuries
For athletes, wearing a custom-fitted mouthguard is essential for preventing dental injuries. A custom mouthguard, made by a dentist, provides superior protection compared to over-the-counter options.
Contact Stone Creek Village Dentistry
We are here to help! If you or your child has experienced a knocked-out tooth or any other dental emergency, please contact us at Stone Creek Village Dentistry in Del Rey Oaks, CA at (831) 920-6900. We are dedicated to providing prompt and compassionate care to our patients. Our team, led by Dr. James Kim, is committed to helping you maintain a healthy and beautiful smile. We proudly serve the Monterey, Sea Side, and Del Rey Oaks community. Don’t hesitate to contact us for any dental concerns.
