Your teeth are secured to your gums by a series of strong periodontal ligaments. There are unfortunate times when a hard fall or a blow to the mouth can impart enough force to damage these periodontal connective tissues causing a tooth to be knocked out or to feel loose in the socket.
In a scenario such as this, you will likely need to apply some simple first aid measure while you seek emergency treatment from Drs. Jeff DeMercy.
Remaining calm despite your distress will help in assessing the damage to your tooth and any traumatized soft tissues. Excess blood in the mouth can be gently rinsed away with a little lukewarm saltwater to provide you a better view of the traumatized area. You should never use antiseptic mouthwash as its astringent properties can cause significant discomfort.
With some cases of dental trauma, it might be possible for the knocked out tooth to be implanted back into the socket along with a root canal. For this treatment plan to be viable, the tooth must be kept alive.
In a moment like this, you can quickly keep the tooth alive by holding it firmly between the cheek and gums. If this isn’t a comfortable option, you might want to try using one of the tooth-preservation products sold in the oral hygiene aisle of most stores.
It typically comes in the form of a small container with special nourishing gel. This fluid is specifically formulated to keep the knocked out tooth and any connected tissues alive.
If you live in the Roswell, Georgia, area and you have just suffered a significant dental trauma, you can call 770-641-8010 to seek emergency treatment at DeMercy Dental.