Emergency Dental Care

Home Care for Dental Emergencies

• What if my tooth gets knocked out?

  A knocked-out tooth, also known as an avulsed tooth, is a serious dental emergency that requires immediate action. Acting quickly can significantly increase the chances of saving and replanting the tooth. Here are the steps to follow if your tooth gets knocked out:

  Stay Calm and Act Quickly
  Remain as calm as possible and act promptly. The first 30 minutes after the injury are crucial for successfully re-implanting the tooth.

  Handle the Tooth Carefully
  Pick up the tooth by the crown (the chewing surface) and avoid touching the root. The root contains cells vital for re-implantation, and handling it can damage these cells.

  Rinse the Tooth Gently
  If the tooth is dirty, rinse it gently with milk or saline solution. If these are not available, use water. Do not scrub the tooth or use soap, toothpaste, or chemicals. Avoid drying the tooth with a cloth or tissue.

  Re-Insert the Tooth If Possible
  If you feel comfortable doing so, try to re-insert the tooth into the socket. Make sure it’s facing the right way, and gently push it back into place. Hold it by the crown and avoid forceful insertion. Once in place, bite down gently on a piece of gauze or a clean cloth to keep it stable.

  Keep the Tooth Moist
  If you cannot re-insert the tooth, keep it moist to prevent the root from drying. If available, place it in a container with milk, saline solution, or a tooth preservation product. You can place the tooth in your mouth between the cheek and gums as a last resort. Avoid using tap water, as it can damage the root cells.

  Seek Immediate Dental Care
  Contact a dentist or go to an emergency dental clinic immediately. Inform them that you are on your way and have a knocked-out tooth. Time is critical for the successful re-implantation of the tooth.

• What if my tooth is loose but still attached?

  A loose tooth in an adult is a dental emergency requiring prompt attention. Avoid touching or moving the tooth to prevent further damage. Gently push it back if it’s out of position and rinse your mouth with warm salt water. Stick to soft foods and apply a cold compress for swelling. Contact your dentist immediately for an emergency appointment. The dentist will examine the tooth, possibly take X-rays, and determine the best treatment.
• What if I have a chipped or cracked tooth?

  If you have a chipped or cracked tooth, rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area. Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling, and take over-the-counter pain relievers if needed. Avoid chewing on the affected side and contact your dentist as soon as possible for an appointment to assess and repair the damage.