Suddenly losing a permanent tooth can be a jarring experience. It can result in a noticeable gap in your smile and make eating and speaking more difficult. But knowing the right steps to take will ensure you get to a dentist and find a solution that restores both the look and function of your mouth. Below, learn about some of the more common reasons a permanent tooth might fall out, as well as what to do if this happens to you.

What Causes a Tooth to Fall Out?

Traumatic injuries to the face are a frequent reason for tooth loss. The force of the impact knocks the tooth out of place. Traumatic injuries can result from any number of incidents, such as motor vehicle accidents, slips and falls, physical altercations, or while participating in sporting events.

Gum disease is another common cause of tooth loss. When bacteria accumulate around the gums, the gum tissue starts to form pockets around the root of the tooth. These pockets grow deeper and deeper and become increasingly hard to clean during normal brushing, causing more bacteria to build up. Eventually, this creates a less-firm support structure for the tooth and increases the likelihood that the tooth will fall out.

What Steps Should You Take?

If your tooth has fallen out, don't touch or handle it by the root. Pick it up by the crown and lightly rinse it off with water. If you can, place the tooth back in the socket to hold it in place until you can get to a dentist. If this isn't possible, store it in milk or saline solution to preserve it. If that's not attainable, place it between your cheek and gums.

The faster you can get to a dentist, the better the odds the tooth can be put back in place. When a tooth cannot be reattached, your dentist might suggest a dental implant to preserve the structure and appearance of the mouth and the comfort of your bite.

If you've experienced the sudden loss of a tooth, contact the Dental Clinic of Onalaska. Since 1993, they have been serving patients throughout the Onalaska, WI, region. They provide exams, X-rays, teeth cleanings, fillings, extractions, and other dental care services. They are committed to delivering quality dental care in a comfortable, stress-free environment. Call (608) 783-3341 to schedule an appointment or visit them online to browse their services.