How do I care for a knocked-out tooth?

ByWeence

Hold it by the crown, rinse without scrubbing, try reinserting it, or keep it moist (in milk or saliva) and see a dentist immediately.

Citations
When a tooth is knocked out, it is crucial to act quickly to increase the chances of saving the tooth. Handle the tooth by the crown (the part visible in the mouth) without touching the root. Gently rinse it with water if dirty, but do not scrub or remove any attached tissue fragments. If possible, try reinserting the tooth into the socket, ensuring it is facing the right way. If reinsertion is not possible, keep the tooth moist by placing it in a container of milk or holding it in the mouth next to the cheek. Seek dental care immediately, ideally within 30 minutes, as time is critical in re-implanting the tooth successfully.

Cost Considerations

The cost of dental treatment for a knocked-out tooth can vary depending on the procedure required. Initial emergency visits can range from $100 to $300. If the tooth can be re-implanted, costs can include re-implantation and splinting fees, which might range from $500 to $1,500. Additional treatments, such as root canal therapy or subsequent cosmetic treatments, could increase the overall cost.

Local Tips

- **Emergency Dental Clinics**: Identify nearby emergency dental clinics or hospitals with dental services to save time during a dental emergency. - **Dental Insurance**: Check if your dental insurance covers emergency procedures and the specifics of what is included. - **Community Health Resources**: Some community health organizations offer emergency dental services at a reduced cost or on a sliding scale based on income.

FAQs

- **What should I do if I can't reinsert the tooth?** Keep the tooth moist by placing it in milk or holding it in your mouth next to your cheek until you can see a dentist. - **How soon should I see a dentist after a tooth is knocked out?** Ideally, visit a dentist within 30 minutes to increase the chances of saving the tooth. - **Can all knocked-out teeth be saved?** Not all knocked-out teeth can be saved, but seeking immediate dental care improves the odds. Teeth that are re-implanted within an hour have the best chances. - **Is it normal for the tooth to feel loose after reinsertion?** Yes, the tooth may feel loose initially. Your dentist may splint it to adjacent teeth to stabilize it as it heals.

Brian 'Weence' Bateman is a seasoned medical and health writer with over a decade of experience in web development, search optimization, and social media for dentists and healthcare providers. His in-depth knowledge and dedication to the field are evident in the meticulously researched and informative content he produces.

Expertise:
Brian combines his technical skills with a deep understanding of healthcare topics to provide content that is accurate, reliable, and engaging. His unique perspective ensures that readers receive valuable information that is both accessible and insightful.

Background:
Over the years, Brian has worked closely with numerous dental and healthcare professionals, gaining valuable insights and understanding of the industry. This hands-on experience allows him to write with authority on a wide range of health-related topics, from dental care to the latest in medical advancements.

Commitment to Quality:
Brian is committed to delivering high-quality content that educates and empowers readers. By staying updated with the latest research and industry trends, he ensures that every article is comprehensive, engaging, and beneficial to both professionals and the general public.

Connect with Brian:
Engage with Brian through comments, shares, and likes to join the conversation on the latest in health and wellness. Stay informed and make well-informed decisions about your health with content you can trust.

Similar Posts