Traumatic Injuries
Injuries to the mouth can cause teeth to be fractured, pushed out of position, or knocked out of their socket. Your dentist or endodontist may be able to reposition and stabilize the tooth, allowing it to heal. After the trauma, you will most likely require close follow-up by an endodontist. Our doctor will carefully assess the tooth over the following weeks to determine if your tooth will require further treatment. Children’s teeth in early development have the ability to recover from trauma without root canal treatment. As for adults, our teeth often require root canal treatment a few weeks after the trauma.
If a permanent tooth is knocked out, act quickly. Gently pick up the tooth by the crown (the top part), avoiding contact with the root. If the tooth is dirty, rinse it briefly with water—do not scrub or remove any attached tissue. If possible, try to place the tooth back into its socket and hold it in place. If that is not possible, store the tooth in a container of milk or saliva. Seek dental care immediately, as prompt treatment greatly improves the chances of saving the tooth.
If your child has knocked out a tooth, contact a dentist or pediatric dentist right away. If the injury involves a permanent tooth, immediate care is critical. For baby teeth, the dentist will evaluate the situation and determine the appropriate next steps. In cases of significant injury, bleeding, or trauma to the face, you may also need to visit an emergency medical provider.