If an accident has left you with a tooth that’s been knocked out, you must get to a dentist who provides Emergency Dental Service in Alexandria VA as quickly as possible. To find out what needs to be done before reaching the dental office, read the questions and answers below.
Q.) What is the first thing an individual should do after a tooth has been knocked out?
A.) The first thing that must be done after getting a tooth knocked out is to find the tooth and keep it moist. If the tooth root is kept moist, the dentist has a good chance of saving the tooth. If the tooth has to be picked up off the ground or floor, it should be picked up by the crown and not the root. If the tooth is dirty or bloody, it should be rinsed off with warm water. The best way to keep the tooth moist is by putting it back into the socket and holding it in place with the tongue or mouth. If this isn’t possible, or it’s painful to hold the tooth in the socket, the tooth should be placed in a small jar with milk or water.
Q.) What should an individual do if the tooth socket continues to bleed?
A.) To control the bleeding before arriving at the dentist office, an individual should place a damp, cool cloth on the area that’s bleeding and apply gentle pressure. After the bleeding subsides, an ice pack wrapped in a cloth and placed on the gums can help to relieve swelling and pain.
Q.) What will a dentist do at the emergency dental clinic?
A.) A dentist who specializes in Emergency Dental Service in Alexandria VA will first examine the socket and the knocked out tooth. The dentist will also check the other teeth to make sure they aren’t loose, broken or fractured. If possible, the dentist will reinsert the tooth back into the socket and use a splint to stabilize the knocked out tooth.
The dentist will schedule a follow-up visit with the patient to check the progress of the treatment. If your tooth has been knocked out, read the full info here about contacting an experienced dentist for emergency services.