If a tooth falls out, dentists can either reattach it (if it’s intact and brought in quickly) or offer solutions like implants, bridges, or dentures to replace it. Acting fast is critical for saving the tooth or exploring the best replacement option.
What to Do Immediately After a Tooth Falls Out
First, don’t panic—there are steps you can take to give your tooth the best chance of being saved.
- Handle the Tooth Carefully: Pick it up by the crown (the white part), avoiding the root. This protects the delicate tissue that might allow the tooth to reattach.
- Rinse It Gently: If the tooth is dirty, rinse it with water. Don’t scrub or use soap, as this can damage it.
- Try Replacing It in the Socket: If possible, gently place the tooth back in its original position. Hold it in place by biting down on a clean cloth.
- Keep It Moist: If reinsertion isn’t an option, store the tooth in milk or saliva to keep it from drying out.
- See a Dentist Quickly: Timing is crucial—ideally, you should get to a dentist within an hour for the best chance of saving the tooth.
How Dentists Fix a Tooth That Falls Out
When you arrive at the dental office, the dentist will evaluate whether your tooth can be reattached. If not, they’ll recommend one of these options to replace it:
Reimplantation
If the tooth is still viable and you acted quickly, the dentist might clean it and reinsert it into the socket. To help it heal, they may stabilize it with a small splint attached to the surrounding teeth. This process gives the tooth a chance to reattach to the bone.
Dental Implant
If the natural tooth can’t be saved, a dental implant is one of the most effective replacements. A titanium post is placed in the jawbone to act as a sturdy foundation for an artificial tooth. A single tooth implant looks and feels like your original tooth, blending seamlessly with your smile.
Dental Bridge
A dental bridge can fill the gap left by a missing tooth. This solution uses the adjacent teeth as anchors to support the replacement tooth, providing a natural look and function.
Partial Dentures
For a removable option, partial dentures can replace one or more missing teeth. These are custom-made to fit comfortably and restore your ability to chew and speak properly.
Call Thrive Dental for Expert Tooth Repair and Replacement
Whether you’re dealing with a knocked-out tooth or need help choosing the best replacement, a restorative dentist at Thrive is here to help. Don’t wait—visit our locations page to schedule an appointment and let us restore your smile with care and expertise.
