If you are a parent, then you know accidents can happen in the blink of an eye. It is knowing what to do in those moments that can change the future. For instance, when your child knocks out a tooth, whether due to a fall, playing sports, or just a random freak accident, you have a short period of time to make the right decision — and ultimately protect the tooth.
This article explores the critical steps you need to take to save a knocked out tooth.
Remain Calm — But Act Fast
Seeing a tooth outside of the mouth can be shocking for a parent. It can also create a moment in which panicking is easy. Speak gently to your child, assuring that all will be ok. Remember that your child is sure to mimic your reaction. Whether you get worked up or remain calm will determine your kiddo’s response.
What’s more, you need to ensure you are thinking clearly and making the best decisions. Take a deep breath, respond appropriately, and don’t forget that time is of the essence. To have the best chance of saving the tooth, you must have your child and the tooth at the dentist within about one hour.
Get your dentist on the line and make them aware of the dental emergency.
Locate the Tooth
The next thing you need to do is find the tooth. Believe it or not, if you act quickly and with the right care, you can have your child’s tooth reimplanted back into its socket. While there are tooth alternatives, none are as strong and effective as a natural tooth which is why dentists work so hard to save them.
Once the tooth is located, pick it up by the crown only. This is the top part of the tooth that you see outside of the gums. Avoid touching the roots as this can damage the sensitive tissues that are needed.
Cleaning and Storing the Tooth
If the tooth is dirty carefully rinse it under lukewarm water. Do not use soap, toothpaste, or disinfectants to clean the tooth. Do not try to scrub or brush the tooth. Simply rinse.
Keep the tooth moist until you see the dentist. Milk is the optimal choice for storing the tooth, but other alternatives are saline or even your child’s own saliva. Water may seem like a logical choice, but it can harm the root cells so avoid it.
Restorative Treatment at Orange County Pediatric Dentistry
At Orange County Pediatric Dentistry, we offer a wide array of dental services. And, we use the latest technology and most advanced treatment to yield the best results for your child’s oral health. Dealing with a knocked-out tooth? We are available for emergencies, too.
Give us a call at 845-928-2206 . Or, request an appointment online.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have to save a baby tooth?
Baby teeth are important placeholders for adult teeth. When one is knocked out, reimplanting the tooth can do more harm than good so it is not usually recommended. If needed, there are alternative treatments that dentists can use to help protect this space.
What happens if the knocked-out tooth can’t be found?
Finding the tooth is the only way to try to save it. Otherwise, your dentist will discuss alternative treatments with you, such as a dental implant if it is an adult tooth.