Losing a tooth, especially a permanent one, can be a frightening experience. While the immediate impulse might be to grab the superglue, this is absolutely not recommended. This article will explore why gluing a knocked-out tooth back in is a bad idea and what you should do instead to maximize your chances of saving it.
Why You Shouldn't Glue Your Tooth Back In
Using household adhesives like superglue or craft glue on a knocked-out tooth is extremely dangerous and ineffective. These glues are not designed for biological tissues and can:
- Damage the tooth: The chemicals in these adhesives can harm the tooth's structure, making it even harder to reimplant successfully.
- Prevent proper reattachment: The glue can create a barrier, hindering the tooth's ability to reintegrate with the surrounding tissues.
- Cause infection: Glue introduces foreign materials into the mouth, increasing the risk of infection.
- Complicate treatment: Cleaning the glue off the tooth can be difficult, adding to the dentist's challenge in reimplanting the tooth.
Your time is much better spent focusing on getting to a dentist as quickly as possible.
What to Do If a Permanent Tooth Falls Out
Time is of the essence when dealing with an avulsed (knocked-out) tooth. Here's the crucial first-aid protocol:
-
Handle the Tooth Carefully: Pick up the tooth by the crown (the white part you see), avoiding the root. Do not scrub or clean it.
-
Store the Tooth Properly: Ideally, replant the tooth immediately back into its socket. If this isn't possible, place the tooth in a container of milk, saliva (your own is best!), or a commercially available tooth-saving solution. Avoid water as it can damage the tooth's cells.
-
See a Dentist Immediately: Even if you manage to replant the tooth yourself, a dentist needs to assess the situation, secure the tooth, and determine if further treatment (like root canal therapy) is necessary.
How Long Do I Have Before It's Too Late?
The sooner you get to a dentist, the better the chances of successfully reimplanting the tooth. The ideal timeframe is within 30 minutes, but even after a few hours, there's still a possibility of saving the tooth. The viability of the tooth decreases significantly after longer periods.
Can a Knocked-Out Baby Tooth Be Reattached?
Baby teeth are generally not reimplanted. Their primary role is to hold space for the permanent teeth to erupt. However, if your child has knocked out a baby tooth, you should still contact your dentist or pediatrician, as proper management may be needed to prevent complications.
What if I Can't Find the Tooth?
If you cannot locate the tooth after it falls out, seeing a dentist is still essential. They can assess the situation, check for damage to the surrounding tissues, and recommend the appropriate course of action.
What are the chances of success in reimplantation?
The success rate of reimplanting a knocked-out tooth depends on several factors, including how quickly the tooth is reimplanted, how well it's stored, and the overall health of the tooth and supporting tissues. Your dentist can give you a more accurate assessment based on your specific situation.
Remember, seeking immediate dental care is crucial. Do not attempt to glue your tooth back in. Contact your dentist or emergency dental services as quickly as possible. This advice is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice.
