If an individual would like to salvage a tooth that has been knocked out, it is imperative that they seek emergency dental services. Although damaged nerves and blood vessels cannot be replaced, there is a possibility that a tooth can be reattached.

A Quick Response To An Injury

A tooth can be knocked out while playing sports or upon being involved in an accident that involves a direct impact on the mouth. If an individual is aware of the proper protocol to follow, they will increase their odds of salvaging their tooth. The sight of blood can be expected, especially when blunt force has been applied to the mouth. Stopping the blood flow is the first step that someone should take. 

An assessment of the area where an incident has taken place may result in locating the tooth that was knocked out. A tooth should be wrapped inside of a damp cloth or paper towel. Clean materials should always be used to wrap a tooth. A dental provider should be contacted next. A dental office that offers emergency services may not require that a patient makes an appointment. However, it is advisable to contact a provider, since some dentists may only offer services on an "as-needed" basis. 

The Dental Appointment

An emergency dental provider will inspect a patient's mouth. The injury could have a bearing on how much pain a patient can handle during the tooth reattachment process. Since this type of procedure is essentially a surgical one, a dentist will likely administer anesthesia. A patient may be slightly drowsy during the examination process and the surgical procedure.

A root canal is used to reattach a tooth. If a tooth cannot adequately be anchored in a person's mouth, a dentist will reveal this fact after the examination process has been conducted. The dental provider may advise a patient to receive a partial instead or an implant instead. Partials and implants are two types of dental prostheses that look like actual teeth.

A partial is made of acrylic resin or another type of plastic that is durable and stiff. A partial is sometimes called a dental bridge. An implant is constructed of titanium or titanium alloys. A dental implant is anchored below the gum line. A partial or an implant will need to be constructed, prior to being anchored. This will require an imprint of a dental patient's teeth.

For help or for more info, turn to a local practice such as Bremen Family Dentistry, PC.