Do This if You Knock Out a Tooth

If you’re 5 years old, losing a tooth is a cause for celebration. You proudly show off the empty space in your mouth while waiting for the “toof” fairy to appear. But losing an adult tooth isn’t fun. That’s a dental emergency.

At Greenwich Dentistry in Greenwich, Connecticut, we offer emergency dental services. Dr. Mark Sutton and Dr. Sean Sutton are available via telephone to guide you in case of a dental emergency, such as having a tooth knocked out in an accident or because of injury.

What to do if you knock out a tooth 

First, stay calm and focused. The next few minutes can make the difference in saving your tooth. So, take a breath and focus. 

1. Find the tooth

Hopefully, you can find your tooth in one piece. If so, carefully pick it up by the top and avoid touching the sensitive tooth roots. If the tooth is broken, bring whatever pieces you can salvage to the office.

2. Rinse off the tooth

If the tooth has dirt on it, rinse it gently with milk or a saline solution, but don’t put it under a running faucet. Use a bowl of lukewarm water if necessary.

 3. Preserve the tooth 

You can replace the clean tooth in your mouth if the roots are attached to the tooth. Fit it right back into its socket if you can.

Otherwise, transport the tooth in a cup of milk or keep the tooth in your cheek. Milk and saliva are the best ways to keep a knocked-out tooth moist. You don’t want it to dry out, but don’t plop it in water. 

4. Get emergency dental care 

At Greenwich Dentistry, one of our dentists is always available by phone and can advise you of your next steps. 

Ideally, you get to the emergency dentist within a few minutes, but certainly within an hour. The quicker you get to the dentist, the better chance we have of reattaching your tooth.

5. Manage your pain and bleeding 

Ibuprofen can help with pain. Stay away from aspirin, which is a blood thinner and can prevent clotting. Use gauze or a damp tea bag to apply pressure to the area and encourage blood clotting while you make your way to the office. 

The team here at Greenwich Dentistry is committed to safeguarding your oral health. If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, call our Cos Cob office at 203-869-2066 as soon as possible. We may be able to save your tooth.