Emergency Dentistry for Tooth Loss By Dr. Collier on June 30, 2020

Dentures with a missing tooth on a plain reflective surfaceDental emergencies happen. Unfortunately, they usually occur when you least expect them. When an emergency situation involves tooth loss, patients may feel panicked and stressed. A tooth may be partially or fully knocked out, or broken off at the gum line.

At Southern Dental Implant Center, serving Cordova, TN, and Memphis, TN, we provide emergency dentistry for tooth loss. Our doctors are skilled and experienced in treatments for tooth loss, including dental implants. Here, our team discusses what to do if you are faced with a dental emergency.

Sudden or Unexpected Tooth Loss

Gradual tooth loss, as a result of long-term dental issues, is upsetting. But sudden tooth loss can be truly devastating. Even the healthiest dental patients are not immune to dental emergencies.

Maybe you were involved in a car accident. Perhaps a tooth was knocked out during a sports game. Maybe you were walking down the sidewalk and tripped and fell. Whatever the reason, if you lose a tooth, it is important to address the situation as soon as it occurs.

Emergency Treatment for a Knocked-Out Tooth

In some instances, a knocked-out tooth can be replanted and saved. Prompt and timely treatment gives you a better chance of saving your natural tooth.

If you are involved in an emergency in which your tooth is knocked out, find the tooth and rinse it off under warm water. Be sure to hold it by the crown, not the root. If you can, place the tooth back in its socket until you make it to our office. If you cannot do this, then fill a container with saline or milk and place the tooth inside. It is crucial that you make it to the dentist as quickly as you can.

Once you arrive, your dentist will assess the situation. X-rays and scans will likely be taken to ensure there is not more extensive damage. If possible, we will replant your tooth to give it the best chance of survival.

What if My Tooth Cannot Be Saved?

If your tooth cannot be successfully replanted, then it is time to start exploring replacement options. Here are the most common choices:

  • Flipper: Only used for temporary measures, a flipper is a removable partial denture. This appliance hides the gap in your smile until you can replace your tooth with a more permanent option.
  • Dental bridge: Used for replacing up to three missing teeth in a row, a bridge is a custom restoration consisting of two dental crowns and artificial teeth (pontics). The crowns are anchored to the natural teeth on both sides of the gap, and the pontic replaces the missing tooth.
  • Dental implant: Unlike other restorative options, dental implants actually replace the missing root. This promotes bone health and reduces the risk for bone atrophy in the future. A dental implant can be cleaned and used just like a natural tooth. It can even last a lifetime with proper maintenance.

Contact Our Practice for More Information

Tooth loss has a direct impact on your appearance and oral health. If you have sustained sudden tooth loss, it is important to visit your dentist right away. To schedule an appointment at our Cordova practice, call us at (901) 756-0078 or contact us online anytime.

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The team at ​Southern Dental Implant Center

​Southern Dental Implant Center

Dr. Jason Collier, our board-certified dentist at ​Southern Dental Implant Center, provides patients in Memphis and the Mid-South area with state-of-the-art dental care using advanced technology. Our doctors are affiliated with many prestigious organizations, including:

  • American Academy of Implant Dentistry
  • International Congress of Oral Implantologists
  • American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry
  • Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation
  • Academy of General Dentistry
  • American Dental Association
  • Tennessee Dental Association
  • Christian Medical & Dental Associations
  • Memphis Dental Society

To learn more about our practice or to schedule an appointment at our Cordova, TN, dental office, contact us online or call (901) 756-0078.

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I have been a patient of Dr. Jason Collier's for many years and have always been treated with the utmost respect and professionalism. His staff is the friendliest dental staff I have ever encountered and I highly recommend this office for any dental needs! Kathleen M.

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