4 Things to Do When You’ve Lost a Permanent Tooth

Getting a permanent tooth knocked out of your mouth can be a scary and traumatic experience. You trust your permanent teeth to be there for you, so when that changes, it’s rattling and upsetting.

The good news is that acting quickly can save your tooth. If you can get to the dentist in Akron, OH, fast enough, your permanent tooth may be able to be reinstalled and healed. Time is of the essence. This is what you need to do.

1. Find the Tooth

Once a permanent tooth is knocked out, it needs to be recovered as soon as possible. It may be on the ground or still in your mouth. If the tooth is on the ground, pick it up by the crown. You can rinse it off with sterile saline solution, milk, or with your own spit. Rinse it gently. Touching the root of the tooth can damage it, so be sure to handle the tooth carefully.

2. Call the Dentist

You’ll need to get to the dentist as fast as possible in order to get your tooth reinserted. Ideally, you’ll be in the dentist’s chair within 30 minutes of the tooth coming out.

Call the dentist immediately to let them know you’re on your way. If it will take longer to get to the dentist, ask the dentist for advice. Sometimes, teeth can stay out for slightly longer, or your dentist may have another location to recommend.

3. Store the Tooth Safely

Storing the tooth safely is important. The best place to put your tooth is back in the hole it came out of. Insert the tooth, root first, into the hole. Bite down gently to keep the tooth in place.

If you’re not feeling up to putting the tooth back in the hole, you can also hold the tooth in your cheek pouch as you’re transported to the dentist.

4. Get to the Dentist As Soon As Possible

Drive safely and efficiently to the dental office.

Are you having adental emergency in Akron, OH? The professionals at Marino Dental on Darrow can help. Call ahead to let us know you’re coming to the office. We’ll be waiting for you.