Knocked Out Tooth

What are the symptoms of a knocked-out tooth?

The main sign of a knocked-out tooth is the loss of the tooth itself. Other symptoms may include:

• Pain in the area of the lost tooth
• Swelling or bruising in the gums
• Bleeding from the gums
• Mouth sores from the injury

What causes a knocked-out tooth?

A knocked-out tooth can happen for several reasons, including:

• Sports injuries, like being hit by a ball or falling during a game
• Accidents, such as falls or car collisions
• Physical fights
• Dental issues, like severe tooth decay

How common are knocked-out teeth?

Knocked-out teeth are a common dental injury, particularly among children and young adults involved in sports or high-energy activities.

Who is more likely to get a knocked-out tooth?

Factors that increase the risk of a knocked-out tooth include:

• Participating in contact sports like football or boxing
• Having braces or other dental appliances
• Being younger, as children and teenagers are often more active

How can I treat a knocked-out tooth?

Immediate treatment is important to save a knocked-out tooth. Here are the steps to follow:

• Handle the tooth by the crown (the part you can see above the gum), not the root
• Rinse the tooth gently with water to remove dirt, but do not scrub it
• If possible, try to place the tooth back in its socket
• If you can’t, keep the tooth moist by placing it in milk or saliva
• See a dentist as soon as possible, ideally within an hour

How to prevent a knocked-out tooth?

While accidents can happen, there are ways to help prevent a knocked-out tooth:

• Wear a mouthguard while playing contact sports
• Avoid using your teeth as tools (like opening packages)
• Maintain good dental health to reduce the risk of tooth decay

How to live with a knocked-out tooth?

If a tooth cannot be saved, there are options to replace it, which your dentist can explain. These can include:

• Dental implants, which are artificial roots placed in the jaw
• Bridges, which connect an artificial tooth to adjacent teeth
• Partial dentures for a removable option

What support is available for people with a knocked-out tooth?

Your dentist can provide support and guidance on treating a knocked-out tooth and what options are available to replace it. They can also help with pain management and any necessary follow-up care.

How quickly can I recover from a knocked-out tooth?

The recovery time can vary depending on whether the tooth is reimplanted successfully. If it is, the healing process may take a few weeks. If the tooth can’t be saved, it may take longer to adjust to a new dental solution.

What’s the outlook for a knocked-out tooth?

If treated promptly, there is a good chance of saving the tooth. However, the longer it takes to seek care, the lower the chance of successful reimplantation. Lost teeth can be replaced with dental options, allowing for a healthy smile.

Final thoughts

A knocked-out tooth is a common dental injury that requires quick action. If you have concerns about dental injuries or need treatment, speak to your GP or dentist.