My Tooth Has Been Knocked Out, What Do I Do Now?

Accidents happen. But when they cause dental emergencies, they can be particularly alarming. Teeth can be knocked out for various reasons, including sports injuries or falls. But it’s important to know that the issue can often be solved with prompt and appropriate action.  

Whether you’re an adult or the parent of a child who has just experienced a dental trauma, knowing the right steps to take can make all the difference.  

Let’s explore the essential steps to take after having a tooth knocked out, how the Essex dentists at Perfect Smile Spa can help, and preventative measures to take to avoid a similar emergency in the future.  

What to Do? 

The first 30 minutes after a tooth is knocked out are critical. Immediate action is vital, and it can greatly increase the chances of saving the tooth. Here’s what you need to do: 

1. Stay Calm and Handle the Tooth Correctly: 

First, don’t panic! Locate the tooth if you can – more on that later. Pick it up by the crown and avoid the root to prevent damaging delicate cells that work to reattach the tooth to the socket.  

If the tooth is dirty, gently rinse it with water or saline solution (avoid tap water if you can) and get on your way to receiving medical attention.  

2. Reinsert the Tooth: 

If possible, reinsert the tooth back into the socket. Make sure it is facing the right way and gently push it into place. If you can’t reinsert the tooth, keep it moist in a container or milk or saline solution.  

If you have no milk, you can place the tooth inside your mouth between your cheek and gums, as your saliva will work to protect the tooth.  

3. Seek Emergency Dental Care: 

Hopefully by this stage, you’re already on your way to receiving medical attention. As mentioned, the first 30 minutes after your tooth has been knocked out are essential, so it’s important to try and get medical help within this time frame.  

At Perfect Smile Spa, our out of hours emergency dental treatment in Essex ensures you can access urgent treatment when you need it most – get in touch to find out more.  

What if the Tooth is Lost or Can’t Be Saved?  

In some cases, the natural tooth will be completely lost or cannot be saved. But don’t worry, here at Perfect Smile Spa, we offer a range of treatments to address missing teeth and restore the functionality and appearance of your smile. 

Our cosmetic dentistry treatments in Essex include: 

Dental Implants  

Providing a permanent solution to missing teeth, our Essex dental implants look, feel, and function like natural teeth. The procedure involves surgically placing titanium posts into the jawbone, which serve as sturdy foundations for replacement teeth.  

Dental Bridges  

Dental bridges are false teeth that are held in place by crowns on adjacent teeth. This non-surgical option can effectively replace one or more missing teeth and works to restore your smile and bite with a natural appearance and feel. 

Dentures  

Available as full or partial dentures, our dentures in Essex offer a versatile solution for multiple missing teeth. These removable appliances can also replace the surrounding tissues, effectively restoring functionality and aesthetics.  

Preventative Measures 

Preventing dental injuries is always better than dealing with the aftermath. By taking a few precautionary steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of dental trauma. Some essential tips to help you protect your teeth include:  

• Use mouthguards during sports  
• Don’t use your teeth as tools!  
• Create a safe home and work environment 
• Attend regular dental check ups  
• Avoid excessive consumption of sugary food and drinks 
• Promptly address any dental issues  

Restoring Your Smile is Our Priority 

Experiencing a knocked-out tooth can be frightening, but with quick action and the right knowledge, you can drastically improve the chances of saving the tooth. At Perfect Smile Spa, our team of dentists in Hornchurch offer quick and expert treatment – regardless of your dental emergency.  

Don’t hesitate to book your FREE consultation or get in touch with us for any dental concerns. Your smile is our priority, and we are committed to helping you maintain it with confidence.