$Unique_ID{BRK02118}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{Replacing Knocked Out Teeth}
$Subject{teeth knocked out tooth replace dentist mouthguard mouthguards
accident accidents mouth Root canal dental nerve}
$Volume{}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1993  Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Replacing Knocked Out Teeth


------------------------------------------------------------------------------

QUESTION:  My son tells me that another boy on his team had a tooth knocked
out during practice, but that his dentist was able to put it back into his
mouth.  I didn't realize that this was possible, and wondered if you knew what
had to be done in such a case, if ever it happens in our family?

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

ANSWER:  Despite the fact that most regularly organized teams now have rules
about the mandatory use of mouthguards, accidents like these are not uncommon.
In fact it is estimated that almost 5 million Americans will lose a tooth as
the result of an accident or just rough play.  And yes, if the proper actions
are promptly taken, there is a chance that the tooth can be saved, and be
replanted in the socket.  However, there are several things you need to do
when the accident occurs, to increase the odds for  a successful outcome.
     When a tooth is knocked out of its socket, the vital cells in the outer
layer begin to die, and will probably be beyond help in little more than 1/2
hour.  That makes it important to keep the tooth in the best condition
possible, to help preserve the cells and to improve the potential for
reattachment.  And haste is a factor.
     First, rinse the tooth gently with plain water, and then place it back
into the socket if you can.  If that's not possible or practical, try to keep
the tooth in your mouth while you hustle off to the nearest facility that can
provide the kind of help you need.  Your own dentist may be your first line of
assistance, but a well equipped emergency room is probably your best bet if
the accident occurs after hours.  If holding the tooth in your mouth is not
possible, keeping it immersed in a bit of milk is the next choice (since it
contains some of the same minerals found in saliva), or just plain water if
nothing else is available.
     Emergency treatment consists of adjusting the tooth back in the socket,
and fastening it in place with bonding materials or wire.  It will be about 8
weeks before you can expect to be sure of the results, which depend upon how
badly the tooth was damaged, how rapidly the treatment was begun, the
condition of the socket and your age group.  Youngsters are more likely than
adults to have a tooth reattach solidly.  Root canal treatment is also needed
to complete the repair as the nerve inevitably dies.

----------------

The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.