Over our lifetime, sports, falls, or accidents can sometimes cause partial or complete loss of a tooth. Even when it appears to be not serious, seek medical or dental attention as soon as possible. The accident that causes a chip or loosening of a tooth can also be responsible for a head or neck injury.
When you experience a chipped tooth, here's how to manage until you can get help:
* Don't eat or drink anything. Collect tooth fragments, place them in a container, and cover them with milk, saline solution, or saliva.
When a tooth is dislodged:
* Rinse out your mouth and check the socket for bleeding. If bleeding, bite down on a piece of clean gauze or apply pressure which helps to stop the bleeding. Pick up the tooth by the crown, not the root, and place it in milk, saline solution, or saliva. If necessary, place the tooth between your cheek and gum to keep it moist till you get to the dentist. Be very careful not to swallow the tooth!
Some experts suggest putting the tooth back into the socket, but its best to see your dentist to be sure the job is done right. It may be necessary for the dentist to place a temporary splint to stabilize the tooth. For more helpful tips or dental information go to our website at www.voorheesdentistry.com.