A knocked-out tooth is a serious dental emergency that needs to be resolved quickly. Because of their unique biology, teeth can’t survive outside of the socket for very long before the chances of putting it back in successfully go down significantly. So, many patients want to know if they can put the tooth back in themselves if the worst happens.
If you’re curious whether a DIY solution for a knocked-out tooth is possible, continue reading.
Can You Put a Knocked-Out Tooth Back in Yourself?
While it’s technically possible to reinsert a knocked-out tooth, the success rate is much higher when done by a professional dentist. They have the training necessary to ensure that the tooth is placed back in its proper orientation and with protection from falling out again.
Attempting DIY tooth reinsertion can carry risks, including further damage to the tooth or surrounding gums if not done correctly. Additionally, improper handling or placement of the tooth can lower its chances of successful reattachment.
What to do with a Knocked-Out Tooth
So, if you find yourself in a situation where a tooth has been knocked-out, what are you supposed to do? Here are some first-aid tips to increase your chances of a successful reinsertion:
Handle the Tooth Carefully
Pick up the tooth by the crown (the part that’s usually visible in the mouth) and avoid touching the root. This could damage the delicate tissues necessary for successful reattachment.
Clean the Tooth
If the tooth is dirty, gently rinse it with milk or saline solution. Avoid using water or scrubbing the tooth, as this can harm the root surface.
Keep the Tooth Moist
If your tooth dries out before you get to the dentist, the odds of a successful re-implantation fall significantly. Keep the tooth moist by placing it in milk, saliva, or a specialty solution for the purpose like Save-A-Tooth. Avoid storing the tooth in water, as this can damage the cells on the root.
Seek Emergency Dental Care
The most important step is to seek immediate dental attention. Many dental offices have same-day appointments available so you can go any time during business hours. If you can’t get an appointment, you’ll need to look for an alternative like an urgent care facility. Be sure to call ahead to ensure the place you choose has a dentist on staff, otherwise you may waste time.
So, while the instinct to reinsert a knocked-out tooth yourself is understandable, it’s best to see a professional. However, time is of the essence, and if a DIY solution is the only one you have—take it. The most important thing to remember is to be safe and handle your oral health with care for the future of your smile.
About the Practice
When you need a knocked-out tooth put back in place, you want dentists you can trust. Dr. Pamela West and Dr. Stephanie Gorczyca are talented and experienced dentists who use advanced dental technology to provide quality treatment. They have the knowledge and the skills to solve dental emergencies quickly so you can get back to living life free of pain. Call (702) 844-6224 to schedule an emergency dental appointment at Summerlin Center for Aesthetic Dentistry, or visit the website to see other services.