Teeth that have been knocked out can be saved if you take quick action. TIME IS CRITICAL.
What do I do?
1. Firstly
Stay calm
Find the tooth
Hold the tooth by the crown of the tooth only (white part)- DO NOT touch the root (yellower part)
2. If the tooth is clean
Replant the into the gum tooth immediately
Have the injured person hold the tooth in with their finger
Call the dentist immediately
3. If the tooth is dirty
If available, rinse in milk and then replant
If no milk is available, rinse for no more than a few seconds in water or have the patient gently suck the tooth and then replant
Call the dentist immediately
4. If you are unable to replant the tooth
Keep the tooth in milk or seal it in glad wrap or place it in the patient's mouth next to the tooth.
DO NOT store in water or detergent
Call the dentist immediately
5. If the tooth root is broken
Replant the tooth immediately or place the tooth in milk or gladwrap
Call the dentist immediately
What will the dentist do?
If you have been able to replant the tooth the dentist will check that the tooth is correctly positioned. If the tooth has not been replanted the dentist will replant the tooth.
The dentist will splint any replanted teeth and check for any other injuries to the mouth or teeth. An x-ray may be required.
Antibiotics or a tetanus shot may be recommended by the dentist depending on the circumstances.
Replanted teeth will need to be monitored over a period of time. Further treatment of the tooth may be required to avoid future problems. The dentist will discuss any necessary treatment.
The most important thing to remember is that TIME IS CRITICAL. Quick action will provide the best outcome for the patient.