What Is Considered a Traumatic Injury?
A dislodged tooth has been partially pushed into or out of its socket or sideways during an injury. If this happens, your dentist is trained to treat the tooth. The tooth is often repositioned and stabilized, but root canal treatment is needed within a few days following the injury to save the tooth.
Knocked Out Tooth (Avulsed Tooth)
More than 5 million teeth are knocked out every year in children and adults! With proper emergency action, a tooth that has been knocked out can be replaced into the socket and last for years. It is essential to see a dentist as soon as possible after the tooth is knocked out. Your dentist is trained to help save your tooth.
Follow Our Recommendations
- Locate the tooth immediately and do not touch the root of the tooth. Only touch the crown of the tooth.
- If the tooth is dirty, rinse gently with water. Do not use soap. Do not dry the tooth. Do not wrap it in a tissue or cloth. Do not scrub the tooth.
- If possible, put the tooth back in the socket immediately. The sooner the tooth is replaced, the greater the likelihood it will survive.
- Keep the tooth moist at all times. If the tooth cannot be replaced into the socket, it must not be left to dry. Put the tooth in milk or in your mouth next to your cheek.
- See an endodontist as soon as possible.