If you have a tooth that has fallen out due to decay, then there is very little you can do about it. Teeth that have decayed will often fall out of their own accord and, in such circumstances, you will probably need some cosmetic dentistry, at the least. On the other hand, an otherwise healthy tooth that has been knocked out can be saved as long as you see your dentist in time. Healthy teeth tend to get knocked out from a blow to the jaw which could occur as a result of a sporting injury or from a fall, for example. In such circumstances, don't delay! See your emergency dentist as soon as possible. What should you do in the meantime?
Find Your Missing Tooth
The first thing to do is to locate your missing tooth. This may be easier said than done, depending on where your tooth was knocked out. If your tooth has fallen out but remains inside your mouth, perhaps while you are eating, then you must be very careful not to swallow it. Quite apart from this causing a choking hazard, ingesting your own tooth means that it will be lost for good. If it is on the floor somewhere, then get people to help you locate it but ask them not to pick it up.
Avoid Handling Your Tooth
Take great care when picking up your tooth. Excessive handling will mean that it's much harder for your emergency dentist to save it for you. Although you may be tempted to pass it around as a curiosity, do not do this. Run it under the tap to clean off any excess dirt but do not scrub it or use any detergent to clean it.
Put Your Tooth Back In
These days, most dentists agree that the best place to keep a knocked-out tooth until you get to a professional is in the very hole that it came from. The cavity in your gum is ideally suited to act as a receptacle for traumatised teeth that have fallen out, even if they wobble around somewhat. That said, your injury may be so severe that you cannot put your teeth back into its hole, perhaps because of localised swelling around your guns. If this is the case, then you should wrap your tooth up in a wet cloth that is clean and take it to your emergency dental appointment with you.
