Are You Dealing with a Knocked-Out Tooth?
A knocked-out tooth is a dental emergency that requires immediate action. Whether caused by a sports injury, accident, or fall, time is critical to saving your tooth. At Downtown Dental Group, our emergency dentist in Manhattan is here to provide fast, compassionate care to restore your smile.
Do you need an emergency appointment? Contact our dental office near you today by calling (785) 776-0097. We’ll get you the care you need.
What Is a Knocked-Out Tooth?
A knocked-out tooth, also known as an avulsed tooth, occurs when a tooth is completely dislodged from its socket due to trauma. This is a serious dental emergency that can happen to anyone, from children playing sports to adults in car accidents. The tooth may be fully intact or fractured, and quick action can significantly increase the chances of saving it.
Immediate Steps to Take for a Knocked-Out Adult Tooth
Acting quickly and correctly can make the difference between saving and losing your tooth. Follow these steps if your tooth is knocked out:
- Find the Tooth: Locate the tooth and pick it up by the crown (the white part), avoiding contact with the root to prevent damage.
- Rinse Gently: If the tooth is dirty, rinse it briefly (5 to 10 seconds) with clean water or milk. Do not scrub or use soap, as this can harm the root’s delicate cells.
- Put the Tooth Back in (If Possible): Try to place the tooth back into its socket, ensuring it faces the right way. Gently bite down on a clean cloth to hold it in place.
- Preserve the Tooth: If reinsertion isn’t possible, store the tooth in:
- A container of milk (preferred) to keep the tooth moist.
- Saliva (place it in your mouth between the cheek and gums, if safe).
- A tooth preservation solution (available in some first-aid kits or an emergency tooth preservation kit).
- Never store the tooth in water, as it damages the root cells.
- Seek Emergency Dental Treatment: Visit our dentist in Manhattan within 30 to 60 minutes for the best chance of saving the tooth.
New Patients of All Ages Are Welcome
Downtown Dental Group makes it easy for families and individuals to get started, whether you need a first dental visit for your child, routine exams for your family, or emergency dental care for yourself. We accept many insurance plans, help uninsured patients understand payment options, and offer flexible scheduling with online booking to fit your busy lifestyle. You can feel confident knowing your family’s dental care is in capable, caring hands.
Common Causes of Knocked-Out Teeth
Common causes of knocked-out adult teeth include:
- Sports Injuries: Contact sports like football, hockey, or basketball often lead to dental trauma. Wearing a custom mouthguard can reduce the risk.
- Accidents: Car crashes, falls, or workplace injuries can dislodge teeth.
- Fights or Physical Altercations: Blows to the face are a frequent cause.
- Hard Foods or Objects: Biting down on hard candy, ice, or non-food items can knock out a tooth.
Contact our Manhattan dentist today by calling (785) 776-0097 to schedule an appointment.
What to Expect During Emergency Dental Treatment
At Downtown Dental Group, Dr. Hall follows a proven protocol to treat knocked-out teeth. Here’s what happens when you arrive:
- Assessment: We evaluate the tooth and socket using digital X-rays to check for fractures, bone damage, or other injuries.
- Cleaning and Preparation: The tooth and socket are gently cleaned to remove debris and bacteria.
- Reimplantation: If viable, the tooth is carefully reinserted into the socket and stabilized with a splint (a temporary brace connecting it to neighboring teeth).
- Follow-Up Care: Our dentists near you can provide antibiotics or pain relief if needed and schedule follow-up visits to monitor healing.
- Root Canal Treatment (If Necessary): A reimplanted tooth often requires a root canal 1 to 2 weeks later to prevent infection and ensure long-term success.
Is your tooth knocked out? Don’t panic! Contact our emergency dental office near you today at (785) 776-0097 for immediate dental care.
Prevention Tips for Knocked-Out Teeth
While accidents happen, you can reduce your risk of knocked-out teeth with these precautions:
- Wear a Mouthguard: Custom-fitted mouthguards from our dentist offer the best protection during sports or high-risk activities.
- Avoid Hard Foods: Don’t chew ice, popcorn kernels, or hard candies that can crack or dislodge teeth.
- Use Safety Gear: Wear helmets and face shields during activities like biking or construction work.
- Maintain Oral Health: Regular dental checkups strengthen teeth and gums, making them less prone to injury.
- Keep Emergency Contacts Handy: Save our dental office phone number for quick access.
Frequently Asked Questions
While not guaranteed, a tooth reimplanted within 30 to 60 minutes has a high success rate (up to 90%). Quick action and proper storage (in milk or saliva) are key.
Baby teeth are typically not reimplanted to avoid damaging the permanent tooth underneath. Contact your dentist immediately for guidance.
Emergency rooms can stabilize trauma but lack dental expertise. Visit a dentist near you for more specialized care.
Missing Teeth or Knocked-Out Teeth? Our Dentist in Manhattan Is Here for You!
A knocked-out tooth is a dental emergency that demands immediate care. Every minute counts when it comes to saving your smile. If you need an emergency dentist in Manhattan, contact our dental office today by calling (785) 776-0097.