When experiencing an unexpected dental trauma like a dislodged tooth, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Whether it happens during a sports activity or from an accidental fall, the situation can be alarming. The good news is that with the right steps taken promptly, you can improve the chances of saving your tooth.

A dislodged tooth, also known as an avulsed tooth, is one of the most serious dental emergencies. Acting quickly while maintaining the proper care can make all the difference before you see an endodontist for professional treatment. Here’s what you need to do.

Stay Calm and Assess the Situation

The first step is to remain calm. Panicking can make the situation more difficult, but staying composed allows you to take swift and proper action. Assess the condition of your mouth and the tooth. If you're bleeding, use a clean piece of gauze or cloth to control it. Avoid touching the roots of the tooth, as this can damage the tissue needed for successful reattachment.

If you locate the dislodged tooth, carefully pick it up by the crown (the top, white part of the tooth) and avoid handling its roots.

Keep the Tooth Moist

A dislodged tooth must remain moist to increase the likelihood of a successful reattachment by your endodontist. If the tooth is dirty, rinse it gently with water, avoiding harsh scrubbing or soap. Following this, the best option is to place the tooth back in its socket if possible, holding it gently in place with clean fingers or by biting down softly on gauze.

If reinsertion isn’t an option, submerge the tooth in a container of milk or a tooth preservation solution. If none are available, keeping it in your mouth between your cheek and gums (be mindful not to swallow it) or wrapping it in a clean, damp cloth will work temporarily.

Seek Immediate Dental Care

Time is critical when a tooth is dislodged. The faster you get professional dental care, the better the chances that your tooth can be successfully reattached or replaced. Call an emergency dentist or endodontist as soon as possible. Ideally, see a professional within 30 minutes of the incident.

Endodontists specialize in saving natural teeth and can assess the condition of the tooth and the surrounding structures. Many treatments, such as root canal therapy or splinting the tooth to the surrounding teeth, can help preserve your natural smile with prompt care.

Recovery and Prevention Tips

After your emergency visit, follow your endodontist’s instructions closely to ensure a successful recovery. Gentle oral hygiene practices and avoiding putting pressure on the injured area will aid the healing process.

To prevent future dental traumas, consider investing in a custom-fitted mouthguard if you participate in physical activities or sports. Staying mindful of risks and taking extra precautions can help you avoid similar emergencies in the future.

Frequently Asked Questions About Traumatic Dental Injuries

What should I do if I can’t find the dislodged tooth?

If you cannot locate the tooth, don’t delay seeking professional care. Your dentist or endodontist will examine the area and determine the best course of action. Sometimes, replacements like dental implants or partial dentures may be an effective solution.

How long do I have to save a dislodged tooth?

While time is of the essence, the critical window for saving a tooth is generally between 30 minutes to an hour. The longer the tooth is out of its socket, the less ideal the outcome. Properly storing the tooth in milk or a tooth preservation solution can help extend this timeframe slightly.

At Modern Micro Endodontics, our compassionate team is here to help you manage dental emergencies with expert care and comfort. With six locations across Northern New Jersey, we specialize in saving natural teeth and providing relief for dental traumas. If you’ve experienced a dislodged tooth or other dental injury, contact us to schedule an immediate appointment.