Unexpectedly losing a tooth as an adult is not a welcome experience. It can be quite uncomfortable, increase your chances of bacterial infection, and hinder the way you speak, eat, and smile. However, with the expeditious care of your dentist, there is a good possibility you'll have your smile back to normal in no time. Here is a guide to what to do when a tooth falls out. 

What Causes Permanent Teeth to Become Loose?

When adult teeth fall out, it is typically for two reasons: periodontal disease or a traumatic injury from sports or an accident. Peridontal disease is caused by plaque, tartar, and bacteria that surround a tooth and eventually infect the gums. The root structure of the tooth is compromised when pockets are formed in the gums. 

The bacteria force the bone to recede due to inflammation, making the tooth placement weak. Proper dental care will increase your chances of keeping plaque, tartar, and bacteria at bay for healthy adult teeth. Unfortunately, not a lot can be done to prevent an unexpected oral injury that results in tooth loss. However, when engaging in contact sports, it's always recommended to wear a mouth guard to keep those pearly whites where they belong. 

What Should I do When One Falls Out?

If your tooth falls out or is knocked out of place, locate your tooth by touching it only on the crown, avoiding the delicate roots. If damaged, these roots may make it impossible to reattach your tooth. Using milk or a saline solution, gently rinse the tooth so it is free of any dirt or debris. Next, place the tooth back in the socket. It might sound strange, but this is the safest place the tooth can be. 

If, for any reason, your tooth does not rest back in the socket, hold it between your mouth and cheek, under your tongue, or in a sealed bag fully submerged in milk or a sterile saline solution. Time is of the essence and getting to a dentist within the first 1 to 2 hours is absolutely necessary for a successful reattachment, free of infection. If your dentist is unavailable, the nearest emergency room will be able to assist you.

If you have concerns about your smile, trust the team at Ronald W. Ristow, D.D.S., LLC in Oconto Falls, WI. With years of experience caring for patients of every age, this team offers preventative and cosmetic dentistry. The team is devoted to giving you a healthy smile you can feel confident about. To schedule your appointment, call (920) 846-3163 or visit them online. If you’d like to stay connected to Ronald W. Ristow DDS,  text JOIN to (920) 249-5938 for the latest news and updates!