What To Do If You Lose A Tooth As An Adult?
Millbrae, CA

Losing a tooth as an adult can be painful. Whether the reason is an accident, decay, or gum disease, complications might be unavoidable. In such a situation, most people are confused about what to do.  

Leaving the loose tooth unaddressed might lead to serious dental problems in the future. With the right action on time, you can save your tooth and, in the long run, your oral health. Read the blog to know what should be your immediate course of action after losing a tooth. 

Immediate Actions to Take When You’ve Lost a Tooth

Remain Calm and Evaluate the Situation

Firstly, do not panic, remain calm. Examine the area for any injury and check if the whole tooth is lost or broken. If you notice any bleeding, bite on a clean cloth or gauze to stop it.

Locate and Treat the Tooth Properly

If the tooth got knocked out fully, find it immediately. Pick it up and hold only the crown part (the part of the tooth visible in the mouth) without touching the root. The root holds sensitive tissue that can be useful in a reinsertion process, hence, treating it nicely might save your tooth.

Rinse the Tooth Gently

If the tooth is filthy, rinse it carefully with milk or saline solution. Do not scrub, use soap, or cover it in a tissue because this can hurt the root. If there is no milk or saline, use clean water, but avoid running water over the root. 

Keep the Tooth Moist

Never leave out a knocked-out tooth. If you cannot reinsert it, place it in a container with:

• Milk (preferred option)
• Saline solution
• A special tooth preservation kit (if available)
• Inside your cheek (for a short time if no container is available)

Avoid storing the tooth in plain water for extended periods, as it can damage the root cells.

Seek Emergency Dental Care

Time is of the essence. Try visiting a dentist for emergency dental care within 30 to 60 minutes to save your tooth. Even if your dentist cannot save your tooth, the dentist can evaluate the situation and avoid further complications.

How to Prevent Future Tooth Loss?

You can’t always prevent accidents, but you can take action to lower your chances of losing another tooth.

• Brush twice a day, floss every day, and get regular visits from the dentist to avoid decay and gum disease.
• If you participate in contact sports or clench your teeth at night, a mouthguard made especially for you can save your teeth from damage.
• Bleeding gums, constant bad breath, and gum recession are symptoms of gum disease that, if not treated, can cause tooth loss.
• Restrict sugary foods and beverages, consume a lot of calcium-containing foods, and drink water to have healthy teeth.

Losing a tooth as an adult is serious, but prompt action can make a lot of difference. If a tooth is avulsed, take care of it gently, keep it moist, and get to the dentist right away. If you cannot salvage the tooth, then you can get replacement methods such as implants, bridges, or dentures to get the oral function and appearance back.

If you ever experience a dental emergency, don’t delay – consult professional help right away.