Accidents happen, and sometimes those accidents involve a tooth taking an unexpected exit. Whether it’s a sports injury, a fall, or a collision, a knocked-out tooth is a dental emergency that requires immediate action. This guide provides Saint John residents with essential information and step-by-step instructions on what to do if you or someone you know experiences this dental trauma.
Understanding the Urgency: Why Acting Fast Matters
When a tooth is knocked out, the clock starts ticking. The sooner you seek professional dental care, the higher the chances of saving the tooth and having it successfully re-implanted. Here’s why:
- Preserving the Root: The root of the tooth is covered in delicate cells and ligaments that are essential for reattachment to the jawbone. The longer the tooth is outside the mouth, the more these cells dry out and become damaged, reducing the likelihood of successful reimplantation.
- Minimizing Infection: The open socket where the tooth was located is vulnerable to bacteria. Delaying treatment increases the risk of infection, which can complicate the reimplantation process and healing.
Step-by-Step Guide: What to Do If You Knock Out a Tooth
- Stay Calm and Assess the Situation:Take a deep breath and try to remain calm. Panic won’t help. Assess the situation and check for any other injuries that may require immediate medical attention. If the individual is unconscious or bleeding heavily, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
- Locate the Tooth:Find the knocked-out tooth as quickly as possible. Handle it carefully to avoid further damage.
- Pick it up by the crown: Avoid touching the root, the pointy end that was embedded in the gum.
- Rinse gently if necessary: If the tooth is dirty, rinse it gently with milk or saline solution. Avoid using water or scrubbing the tooth, as this can damage the root surface.
- Attempt Reimplantation:If possible, gently try to reinsert the tooth back into its socket. Make sure it’s facing the right way. Bite down gently on a clean cloth or gauze to help hold it in place.
- Keep the Tooth Moist:If you can’t reinsert the tooth, it’s crucial to keep it moist to preserve the cells on the root surface. Here are the best options:
- Milk: Milk is the ideal storage medium as it has a similar pH and osmolarity to saliva and contains nutrients that help keep the cells alive.
- Saline Solution: If milk isn’t available, use a sterile saline solution.
- Inside the Cheek: As a last resort, an adult or older child can hold the tooth inside their cheek. Avoid this method for young children who might swallow the tooth.
- Control Bleeding:Apply gentle pressure to the socket with a clean cloth or gauze to control bleeding.
- Seek Immediate Dental Attention:Call your dentist or an emergency dental clinic in Saint John immediately. Explain the situation and let them know you’re on your way. The sooner you receive professional help, the better the chances of saving the tooth.
What to Expect at the Dentist:
- Examination: The dentist will examine the tooth and the socket to assess the damage and determine the best course of action.
- Reimplantation: If possible, the dentist will reimplant the tooth and stabilize it with a splint.
- Follow-up Care: You’ll likely need follow-up appointments to monitor healing, ensure the tooth remains stable, and check for any signs of infection.
- Root Canal Treatment: In some cases, a root canal might be necessary later to remove any damaged or infected tissue inside the tooth.
Tips for Preventing Knocked-Out Teeth:
- Mouthguards for Sports: Always wear a mouthguard when participating in contact sports or activities that pose a risk of facial injury.
- Seatbelts and Safety Measures: Always wear a seatbelt in a vehicle and take necessary safety precautions to prevent falls and accidents.
- Protective Gear: Wear appropriate protective gear, such as helmets, when engaging in activities that could lead to head injuries.
- Safe Environment: Make your home environment safe for children by using safety gates, securing rugs, and keeping hazardous objects out of reach.
Finding Emergency Dental Care in Saint John:
- Your Regular Dentist: Your first call should be to your regular dentist, as they are familiar with your dental history and may be able to accommodate you quickly.
- Emergency Dental Clinics: Several dental clinics in Saint John offer emergency dental services. Search online or check your local directory for clinics that provide same-day or next-day appointments.
- Hospital Emergency Rooms: For severe dental emergencies, especially those involving facial trauma or uncontrolled bleeding, you may need to go to the nearest hospital emergency room.
Don’t Delay, Seek Care Today!
A knocked-out tooth is a serious dental emergency that requires immediate attention. By following these steps and seeking prompt professional care in Saint John, you significantly increase the chances of saving the tooth and maintaining a healthy, complete smile. Remember, time is of the essence, so don’t hesitate to contact your dentist or an emergency dental clinic as soon as possible.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us. Or if you’d like to visit our dental clinic, please find us on Google Maps.
