Addressing Loose or Dislodged Teeth: Emergency Action Plan

Addressing Loose or Dislodged Teeth: Emergency Action Plan

Dental emergencies, such as tooth or gum injuries, should never be ignored. Failing to get immediate care can lead to the need for more extensive and costly treatment down the line. It also increases the risk of permanent damage. 

If you have a loose tooth, an emergency dentist can provide the care you need. If an adult tooth is loose or dislodged, it requires immediate treatment. Learn the appropriate emergency action plan to address loose or dislodged teeth.  

Loose or Dislodged Teeth 

Getting a tooth knocked out can happen anywhere at any time. A fall, bump against the door, an elbow during a game, and other incidents can leave you with a gapped smile. When an adult tooth dislodges or falls out, it can lead to issues like teeth misalignment and jawbone deterioration. 

A missing tooth can also change the facial structure. Getting emergency dental care can help to avert potential problems. 

Reasons for Loose or Dislodged Teeth

Loose or dislodged teeth can be due to various reasons, including the following:

• Gum disease that can damage the bone and gum structures that hold the tooth in place

• Tooth decay that damages the tooth structures

• Injury or trauma to the face that causes the tooth to loosen or fall out

• Bruxism or teeth grinding

• Poor oral hygiene

If you have a loose tooth, you should visit your dentist immediately. Waiting to get treatment can cause the tooth to dislodge. 

Emergency Action Plan 

Fixing your loose tooth before it falls out can help to prevent permanent or severe damage. Several steps you can take to save your tooth include:

• Moving the tooth back into position. If tooth movement results in severe pain, it could be due to bone injury. Wait until you get to the dentist before nudging the tooth. 

• Stabilize any bleeding by applying pressure using tissues or clean gauze. It may take several minutes to stop the bleeding.  

• Visit the dentist as soon as possible. The dentist will splint the loose tooth, allowing it to stabilize. If the tooth dislodges, carry it to the emergency room. 

• If you experience pain, an OTC pain reliever can help. A cool compress can reduce swelling and soreness. 

Getting Dental X-Rays 

It is difficult to determine the damage that has occurred without an X-ray. An X-ray will check if the tooth is fractured or the underlying bone chips. Avoid causing unnecessary trauma to the area by trying to move the tooth. Your dentist will check to look for symptoms of further complications. A dental exam will determine the extent of damage to find the best treatment plan. 

Treating Loose Teeth 

Emergency dentists usually use a splint to stabilize a loose tooth. It helps to hold the tooth in place, allowing it to re-bond with the surrounding bone. Loose tooth treatment will depend on the cause of the damage. 

If the tooth is loose due to gum disease, the dentist may recommend deep cleaning, surgery, or tissue grafts. The dentist can splint a loose tooth using cement material or a wire. It is bonded to the neighboring teeth to stabilize it as it heals.

A tooth may appear healthy for several days before symptoms manifest. If the tooth nerves are affected, they may begin to die. Always remember that treating a loose tooth is easier and less costly than replacing a lost tooth with an implant.

For more on emergency action plans to address loose or dislodged teeth, visit Smile Institute Miami. Our office is in Miami, Florida. Call (305) 590-5228 to book an appointment today.