Procedures

Traumatic Injuries

It isn’t just skateboarders and Little Leaguers who experience tooth trauma. Everything from automobile accidents to tripping on the sidewalk can lead to traumatic tooth injuries. The diagrams in this AAE link are very good in helping you understand some basics.

If a tooth is completely knocked out, time is of the essence. The length of time the tooth is out of the mouth and the way the tooth is stored, may influence the type of treatment it receives. The delicate cells that cover the root need to be protected.

Thus, the “root” of the tooth should be handled very gently. Try to avoid touching the root surface as much as possible. If it is dirty, quickly and gently rinse it. Milk is better, but water is OK too. Do not use soap or any other cleaning agent, and never scrape or brush the tooth. If possible, the tooth should be placed back into its socket as soon as possible. The less time the tooth is out of its socket, the better the chance for saving it. Call your dentist immediately!