How to: Save Your Tooth
To maintain good oral health, taking care of your teeth is essential. However, accidents happen, and teeth can get knocked out or damaged.
In this article, we will provide insight into saving a tooth that has been subject to damage or knocked out. We will also discuss preventative measures to take to reduce the risk of tooth loss.
Taking Preventative Care Seriously
A variety of factors, including the following, can cause adult tooth loss:
Gum disease is caused by bacteria that attack the gums and bones supporting the teeth, leading to inflammation, infection, and eventual tooth loss.
Bruxism is a term that describes the grinding or clenching of teeth. The condition can cause the teeth to wear down and become loose.
Cavities can cause tooth decay, which, if left untreated, can require root canal therapy or lead to tooth loss.
Physical trauma can also cause tooth loss, such as in the case of a sports injury or a car accident.
Periodontitis is a more advanced condition or form of gum disease that can lead to the loss of both gum tissue and bone.
Diabetes, hypertension, and osteoporosis can also contribute to tooth loss by affecting overall health and weakening the bone and gum tissue that support the teeth.
Regular dental cleanings and fillings can also help prevent tooth loss. Mouth guards or night guards can be beneficial for those who grind their teeth or participate in contact sports.
It is essential to maintain overall health through proper nutrition and routine oral care at home, such as brushing two times a day and flossing on a regular basis.
Knocked out tooth? Here’s how to save it
If a tooth gets knocked out, act quickly. The first thing to do is to locate the tooth and handle it only by the crown (the top part). Avoid touching the root as much as possible.
If the tooth has fallen and has become dirty, rinse it gently under running water. Try to reinsert the tooth into the socket and hold it in place with clean gauze or a cloth.
If it is not possible to reinsert the tooth, store it in milk or saliva. As Dr. A states, seek emergency dental care immediately for a knocked-out tooth.
Do not store the tooth in water, as this can cause damage to the tooth’s delicate cells.
Treatment options to help save your tooth
If a tooth is damaged but still in place, several gum disease treatment options are available to save it.
Root canal therapy is an option for a tooth with infected or inflamed pulp. A crown, veneer, or bonding can be used to repair a damaged tooth’s appearance and restore function.
Professional dental cleaning and filling are crucial for maintaining good oral health and can help prevent further damage.
A nightguard can also be an effective gum disease treatment option for those who grind their teeth at night. Ashraf Dentistry makes nightguards onsite at their clinic, which can help prevent tooth loss and other issues associated with bruxism.
Maintaining good oral hygiene practices and seeking timely dental care can help prevent adult tooth loss caused by conditions such as gum disease.
While prevention is vital, it is essential to know that gum disease treatment options are available to help save your teeth and restore oral health. From non-surgical and surgical options to routine professional dental cleanings, fillings, and root canal therapy, there are many ways to treat and prevent gum disease.
