Knocked-out Tooth
An avulsed or knocked-out tooth is a dental emergency that must be attended to immediately. If your tooth has been knocked out, the first thing to do is to move swiftly and calmly.
Performing first aid for a knocked-out tooth correctly will help increase the chances of saving it, allowing it to be successfully replanted and last for many years. Seeking medical attention within 30 minutes of the damage is advised because an avulsed tooth is serious.
First Aid for Avulsed Tooth
- Find the tooth and hold it by the crown. Do not touch the root.
- Clean the tooth with milk or under cold running water for a few seconds only. Avoid using soap or chemicals. Also, don’t scrub the tooth or dry it out. Keep the tooth moist.
- Reposition the tooth and ensure it’s the right way around in the correct location.
- Reinsert the tooth by pushing it gently into the socket using your fingers. Close your mouth slowly.
- If you can’t reinsert the tooth back into its original location, place it in a clean container with saline, milk, or saliva.
- Don’t place or soak the tooth in the water.
- Go to your dentist or the nearest dental clinic immediately. Do this within 30 minutes or less than an hour. Remember to bring the tooth with you.
Knocked-out Tooth Treatment
Putting the tooth back in its original place can be simple or intricate. If the tooth or bone is broken, it won’t be accessible. The dentist will start the treatment by flushing any debris from the socket with water.
Next, the dentist will slip the tooth back into place. This step is crucial and must be done quickly. The dentist will take the best course of action, depending on how long the tooth has been exposed outside your mouth and other considerations.
In any case, Thornton’s dentist will splint the avulsed tooth on either side with a soft wire or composite material, holding the tooth in place for several days. The dentist will then decide how many days or weeks the splint will stay on your tooth.
The repair can take 6 to 8 weeks if the area has more damage. If there are no indications of infection, your next appointment will be your next scheduled dental visit. To ensure that the re-implanting has been successful, your dentist will recommend a follow-up visit for the next 2 to 3 years.
Dental Emergency Services in Thornton
If you have dental emergencies such as a knocked-out tooth, visit your dentist at Thornton Dental as soon as possible. Our quick and responsive dental team will apply their skills to help keep your tooth and make you feel at ease and pain-free again.
For dental emergencies in Thornton, call us on (02) 4966 2996 or book your appointment online today!
Visit us at Thornton Shopping Centre, Shop 30/1 Taylor Ave in Thornton.