There are instances, during sports or road accidents or just a simple fall, where a tooth can get knocked out. Chances are rare, but not zero. So in case of this happening to you or someone else, it is always good to be informed. Here are the dentist-approved ways that can save ‘that oh so dear tooth.’
So, it starts with locating the tooth and picking it up. You need to hold it from the crown portion, do not, I repeat do not touch the root surface as it has all the live cells which help in tooth rebonding.
In case of debris stuck on the root surface, rinse the tooth very slowly with saline or milk, obviously holding the crown portion. Then try to put it back in the socket, for side reference, you can look at the same tooth in the neighboring quadrant or maybe someone else’s same tooth, for example, the third tooth from the center in the upper jaw. Now it is possible that you might not be able to put it in, or you are not comfortable in doing so, no problem, that is why there are dentists. You need to call your dental office or the closest dental office to your location and inform them about the accident. This will give them time to prep for your arrival.
How do I take the tooth to the dentist?
You can take the tooth in a clean container filled with a tooth storing solution( available at the pharmacy). Now, it is saddening that it is sometimes not available and as a replacement, you can put it in milk.
Assuming that milk is also not available at that instance, you can put it in your cheek pocket, or make the person spit and collect the saliva enough for the entire tooth to sink in. Done this, rush to the dentist.
At the dentists:
The dentist will clean the tooth and insert it in the socket and might perform other procedures like a gum surgery if required. If you have already placed the tooth in the socket, it will be assessed and any other procedures needed will be performed. As for the success rates, time is the most important factor, the sooner the replantation done, the better the results.
Hopefully, you will never have to deal with this, but even if you have to you know the drill!!
P.s- in case of an accident you need to call you your physician as well to take any other action they deem to be necessary.
