The sudden loss of a tooth can be incredibly traumatic, which is why it’s not uncommon for patients to make simple errors. Unfortunately, these mistakes can compromise the future health of your teeth, so it’s important to seek help from a dentist and follow a few specific steps. Here’s what you should keep in mind if you unexpectedly lose a tooth.

Have You Lost a Tooth? Don’t Make These Mistakes

1. Touching the Tooth Incorrectly

After you realize a tooth has been knocked out, you might scramble to recover it. However, touching the tooth by the root could damage the small blood vessels and nerves that are needed to reattach it properly, so only touch the tooth by the crown. Never attempt to physically clean the root of the tooth by brushing it or rubbing it with your fingers, as these actions can also cause damage. 

2. Assuming the Tooth Can’t Be Reattached 

Sometimes, people assume that once a tooth has been knocked out, the damage has already been done. Instead of contacting their dentist, they may focus on evaluating the wound or controlling the bleeding. However, knocked out teeth can be successfully reattached if you seek help from a dentist immediately following the accident. 

3. Waiting Too Long to See a Dentist

A knocked-out tooth qualifies as a dental emergency, so you should visit your dentist as soon as possible. While it’s possible for the tooth to be reattached, successful re-implantation is time-sensitive. In fact, teeth that are reinserted within 30 minutes of being knocked out have a 90% chance of survival — waiting two hours reduces that survival rate to 5%. 

If you’re involved in an accident that results in dental trauma, don’t hesitate to visit a professional. Mammoth Spring Dental Clinic in Fulton County, AR, will provide the emergency assistance you need to save your tooth and your smile. With more than 30 years of experience, their dentist, Dr. Michael Kersey, D.D.S., offers comprehensive dental care, from emergency re-implantations to general teeth cleanings. If you have any concerns about your oral health, call (870) 625-3262 to schedule an appointment or speak to a member of the team. Learn more about his practice online.