Losing a permanent tooth can adversely impact your oral health. It affects the appearance of your smile and can impair your ability to eat and speak comfortably. The absence of a tooth can also cause neighboring teeth to move, potentially causing further dental issues.
Losing a permanent tooth can be traumatic, but staying composed and responding swiftly increases the possibility of saving the tooth.
If you wonder, "What do I do if one of my permanent teeth falls out?" you have come to the right place.
Common Causes Behind a Permanent Tooth Falling Out
- Trauma: Impact from accidents, falls, or sports injuries can dislodge a tooth.
- Dental Disease: Advanced gum disease (periodontitis) can weaken the supporting structures of teeth.
- Poor Oral Hygiene: Neglecting regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups can lead to decay and tooth loss.
- Tooth Decay: Untreated cavities can erode the tooth structure, leading to instability.
- Medical Conditions: Conditions like osteoporosis or certain medications can affect dental health and contribute to tooth loss.
What Do I Do if One of My Permanent Teeth Falls Out? – Immediate Steps
Find the Tooth
The first step in the series of what to do when one of your permanent teeth falls out is to find the tooth. Handle the tooth carefully by its crown—the visible part above the gum line—to prevent damage to its delicate root tissues.
Stop the Bleeding 
Bleeding is usually the first indication of tooth loss. Apply gentle pressure to the area using sterile cotton balls to help stop the bleeding. Replace the cotton balls periodically to assist in forming a clot. Rinse your mouth with fresh water to prevent swallowing blood, which can cause nausea or vomiting.
Rinse the Tooth
After you've stopped the bleeding and retrieved the tooth, carefully rinse it with water. Avoid using soap on the broken tooth; do not rub or brush it, as that will only cause further damage.
Protect the Tooth
Now comes the step to preserve your tooth. While your reflex may be to wrap the tooth, this can harm the root. It's essential to keep the tooth moist. After rinsing it, the best method to protect the tooth is to reinsert it into the empty socket in your mouth. Hold the tooth gently but firmly until you can reach a dentist.
If reinsertion isn't possible, store the tooth in a clean container filled with milk or saline solution. Milk or saline helps preserve the tooth, whereas water—especially tap water—can damage the root.
Contact Your Dentist
If you lose a permanent tooth, contact your dentist immediately. The sooner you see your dentist, the higher the chances of successful reimplantation. Even if you cannot locate the tooth or believe it cannot be saved, it's crucial to seek dental care promptly to address the empty socket and explore options for tooth replacement.
What to Expect at the Dentist
What you can expect at the dentist after losing a permanent tooth depends on whether you have managed to locate the tooth, reinsert it, or store it correctly.
If You Were Unable to Reinsert/Find the Tooth
If the tooth has been out of the socket for more than three hours because you couldn't reinsert it or find it, there is usually no hope of saving it. Your dentist will discuss different tooth replacement options with you, such as:
- Dental Implants: Dental implants are artificial tooth roots of titanium surgically placed into the jawbone. They provide a sturdy foundation for replacement teeth.
- Dental Bridges: Dental bridges consist of artificial teeth (pontics) supported by adjacent natural teeth or dental implants. They are non-removable and can restore chewing function and aesthetics.
- Dentures (Removable): Dentures are removable prosthetic teeth attached to a plastic or metal base that rests on the gums. They are non-invasive and can replace multiple teeth.
- Resin-Bonded Bridges (Maryland Bridges): Maryland bridges use metal or porcelain wings bonded to adjacent teeth to support a pontic. They are minimally invasive and help preserve the adjacent teeth structure.
- Flipper Dentures: Flipper dentures are temporary, removable appliances with one or more prosthetic teeth. They are quick to make and are a handy and affordable temporary solution.
If You Have Stored/Reinserted the Tooth Correctly & Brought it With You
If you have reinserted the salvaged tooth, the dentist will first use X-rays to ensure it is positioned correctly.
If the tooth has been stored in liquid, the dentist will clean it before reinserting it under local anesthesia. They will then verify its alignment using X-rays or by having you gently bite down to ensure it fits properly without interference from opposing teeth.
Next, the dentist will perform splinting, which involves applying strips of flexible composite resin paste across the avulsed tooth and onto adjacent teeth. The splint stabilizes the tooth. Alternatively, orthodontic wire secured with composite resin may be used for added stability.
Typically, the splint remains in place for seven to ten days, but if there is a bone fracture around the tooth, it may be left in place for six to ten weeks.
Takeaway
Knowing what to do if one of your permanent teeth falls out can make a significant difference in saving your tooth and preserving your oral health.
Remember, contacting your dentist promptly enhances the chances of successful reimplantation or exploring the best replacement options. By staying informed and proactive, you can confidently navigate this dental emergency, ensuring the best possible outcome for your long-term oral well-being.
Schedule a consultation with Sunflower Dental Spa to learn about the best tooth replacement options.
FAQs
Can you live with a missing tooth?
Yes, you can live with a missing tooth, but it can affect your oral health, speech, and eating abilities over time. It can also alter your jawbone structure after a few years.
How can I replace my missing permanent teeth?
The common options to replace permanent missing include dental implants, bridges, and dentures.
