A loose tooth might’ve been exciting as a child, but not so much as an adult. You won’t get a visit from the tooth fairy, but you should do your best to protect your smile. Taking care of it can preserve your oral health, but what should you do? You should first call your emergency dentist and get scheduled right away. However, until you get to their office, here are three things you should do.
Don’t Mess with the Tooth
While you might’ve played with a loose baby tooth, don’t do this to your permanent ones. Trying to extract it yourself or put a homemade splint can lead to more problems down the line. They can increase the discomfort you may already be feeling, so leave it to your dentist; that way, you don’t accidentally worsen the problem at hand.
Gently Clean Your Mouth
You should take a moment to clean debris and bacteria from your mouth. Rinse with warm water by swishing it gently or tilting your head around. Don’t be aggressive or vigorous, as you can risk knocking the tooth completely out of place. You might want to brush and floss, but avoid doing so. It’s easier than you think to be too rough.
Avoid Certain Foods
There’s a rare chance your dentist can’t see you immediately, so if you need to eat until your visit, then avoid anything hard, crunchy, chewy, or sticky. These can increase the damage already done or cause more discomfort. Instead, pick softer options, like mashed potatoes or applesauce. You should also chew on the opposite side of your mouth and take your time.
How Does a Dentist Treat a Loose Adult Tooth?
When it’s time for your visit, your dentist will do everything they can to save your tooth. After an oral examination, they will learn whether a splint can be an effective solution. If it will be, then it will hold the structure in place while the gum and bone tissue grow back around it. If it cannot be salvaged, then you may need to explore replacement options. However, extracting it will be the last resort.
The good news is that your provider will be with you every step of the way. So, you can feel confident about getting back your strong smile.
About the Practice
Has a tooth suddenly come loose? Our team at Advanced Dental Concepts is dedicated to helping patients in Crown Point with their dental emergencies. Our compassionate dentists offer same-day urgent visits; that way, we can get to the bottom of the issue at hand and give you the effective care you deserve. If you have any questions, schedule an appointment or call our office at 219-663-6878.