Teeth lost due to sudden trauma can cause patients to panic. At the Ramsey dental practice of Dr. Laura Randolph, we provide patients with emergency dental care and have created this guide to help you understand surprising ways in which lost teeth can be saved for re-implantation.
If you are experiencing a true emergency, contact us immediately at (201) 327-1976.
Lick Your Tooth Clean
As funny as it may sound, lost teeth that have become dirty as they were knocked out can benefit from being licked clean. Saliva can be used to clean off the tooth and prevents the loss of soft and connective tissue. When doing so, be sure to hold the tooth by the crown and avoid touching any soft tissues or the root of the tooth.
Scrubbing the tooth under tap water can lead to the loss of these tissues, making it necessary to receive a full prosthetic restoration, rather than replacing the same tooth in its socket.
Hold the Tooth in Place
Another odd trick to save a tooth that has been avulsed is to place it back in its socket and holding the tooth in place with a piece of gauze or a clean cloth. This allows the tooth to begin healing before you are able to see the dentist. Biting down on gauze or a cloth will not only help to relieve discomfort with counter pressure, but will begin the clotting process
Store it in Your Cheek
If your tooth doesn’t fit in its socket, popping it between your gum and check can also help to preserve the health of the vital tissues. Saliva is an ideal solution for preserving the tooth, which is also what makes it so ideal for cleaning the tooth.
Place Your Tooth in Milk
Much like saliva, milk is used for suspending the soft tissues of lost teeth. If you are unable to replace your tooth in its socket, placing it into a glass of milk can help to preserve it before your appointment with our Ramsey emergency dentist.
Contact Dr. Laura Randolph for Dental Emergencies
If you have experienced a dental emergency, and are in need of care, contact the dental practice of Dr. Randolph today. Our team provides patients throughout Ramsey and the surrounding communities with comprehensive dental care to ensure the immediate and long term health of their smiles.