Damage From Trauma
Damage from trauma can result in a tooth being broken, loosened or knocked out completely. Sometimes the tooth can be successfully re implanted. See advice below.
Tooth knocked out
If a tooth is knocked out it is vital that it is put back into its socket as soon as possible. Do not wait to see a dentist to re-implant the tooth. If the tooth is clean, do it straight away and then seek dental help. Hold the tooth by the crown (the white shiny part normally seen in the mouth) and not the root. The root has delicate cells needed to attach the tooth so try not to touch this part. Take care to get the tooth the right way around. Once back in, get the injured person to bite gently on a handkerchief until seen by a dentist who will then secure the tooth.
If the tooth is dirty, rinse in cold water or milk. Do not scrub it or put it in disinfectant. This will damage the delicate cells on the root needed to attach the tooth back to the gum. If unable to put the tooth back put the tooth in a cup of milk and see a dentist as soon as possible. The tooth must be kept moist. If milk is not available, put the tooth in the injured person's mouth between their cheek and the gum. If the tooth is kept moist until it is put back in its socket there is a greater chance of permanent recovery. It may still be successful up to 24 hours after the accident.
If you cannot see a dentist immediately after the accident, contact (0845 4647 - NHS Direct) to find out your nearest Accident & Emergency department that has a dentist on call.
Fractured teeth
A fractured segment of a tooth can sometimes be reattached with dental bond, therefore if a tooth is fractured and the pieces are found please retain and contact your dentist immediately.
Loose Crowns, Bridges etc.
This rarely cause pain that, but are very socially inconvenient. If you are unable to see a dentist, check the Crown/Bridge/Veneer fits back onto the tooth. If it fits and you are able to bite on it with out it being proud then a temporary repair can be made with denture fixative or a dental repair kit available from the chemist. If the tooth has fractured-off inside the crown it won’t grip the remaining root sufficiently to stay in, so please retain the Crown and take it see a dentist.
