A Knocked Out Tooth Is a Dental Emergency
A knocked out tooth may be a dental emergency if the symptoms are severe or the long-term health of the tooth is in jeopardy without prompt care. This review discusses when a knocked out tooth is considered a dental emergency and the types of treatments that are available to treat the concern.
Why a knocked out tooth is considered a dental emergency
In many cases, a knocked out tooth can be repositioned in the socket and the need for tooth replacement can be avoided. In instances where a knocked out tooth cannot be saved, it is still important to seek prompt care from a dentist to help ensure the initial discomfort is managed and that there are no additional oral health concerns that develop.
The causes of a knocked out tooth
The cause of a knocked out tooth may influence how urgent dental care is needed. The main cause of a knocked out tooth is, of course, a blow to the mouth. This can result from a sporting accident, falling down, a physical altercation, or biting down too hard on ice or hard foods. A tooth may also fall out (rather than be knocked out) as a result of oral health concerns such as deep tooth decay or periodontal disease.
The importance of emergency treatment for a knocked out tooth
Emergency dental treatment is important after a knocked out tooth as it can lead to more severe concerns. Firstly, there is typically a fair amount of discomfort to the tooth and the gums after a tooth is knocked out (or loose inside) of the socket. This discomfort can last for hours if not promptly treated; emergency dental treatment can help alleviate the initial discomfort quickly.
In addition, promptly treating a knocked out tooth can help prevent an oral infection that has the potential to spread to other parts of the mouth. Patients are also able to address the cosmetic concern a knocked out tooth causes promptly as well.
How a dentist can treat a knocked out tooth
A dentist may be able to reposition the knocked out tooth in the socket if the patient properly preserves it beforehand and seeks dental emergency treatment right away. If they are unable to save the tooth, then there are several teeth replacement options, including dental implant restoration, fixed bridge, and partial denture.
Other types of dental emergencies
A tooth that is knocked loose in the socket may also be a dental emergency. Chips, cracks, and other forms of broken teeth that are the result of dental trauma typically require prompt care from a dentist as well.
Find out more about dental emergency treatment
If you have endured a knocked out tooth (or a tooth that has been knocked loose in the socket, and you are experiencing discomfort or would like to try to replace your natural tooth, then call us today. We offer emergency dentistry services for knocked out teeth and other types of dental emergencies.
Request an appointment here: https://www.mysaratogadentist.com or call My Saratoga Dentist PLLC at (518) 675-3094 for an appointment in our Saratoga Springs office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Emergency in Saratoga Springs, NY.
Recent Posts
A dental crown can fix a broken tooth. An accident, biting on a piece of hard food, or an intense hit to your face can cause this dental injury. You then experience pain and sensitivity, not to mention self-consciousness about the unsightly appearance of your broken tooth. It is a good thing that modern dentistry…
An emergency dentist is a particular type of dental professional who undergoes additional education and training to learn how to deal with urgent and emergency situations. While emergency dentists do learn how to provide general dentistry care, they also learn how to think and act on the spot when an emergency happens. In most cases,…
If you think you have a dental abscess, you should see an emergency dentist as soon as possible. An abscess is a dental infection that causes pus to collect in or around a tooth. Periodontal abscesses originate from the structures around the tooth, such as the jawbone or gums. Endodontic infections originate from inside the…
Most dental care can be done at your regular dentist on your schedule. However, some types of care need the immediate attention of an emergency dentist. Assessing the type and severity of your symptoms is the key to determining when you need emergency care. The faster you act, the better your outcome is likely to…