I was playing a game of baseball with some neighborhood kids when one of the balls went flying and hit me in the mouth. I originally thought I was fine because it didn’t bleed or bruise. But this morning the tooth is wiggly and loose. Is there a way to save it or is it toast?
Payson
Dear Payson,
It’s very possible your dentist or an emergency dentist if you don’t have one can save your tooth. But two things need to happen for you to have the best shot.
Stop wiggling it.
Your tooth has ligaments that are a bit stretchy, like rubber bands. But, just like rubber bands, if you stretch them too far or too often and they’ll snap or lose their elasticity. This puts your tooth at greater risk.
Get to the Emergency Dentist
You’ll want to get in as quickly as possible. The longer this is left that way the less chance you have to save it. The dentist can stabilize the tooth by using a splint or bonding the tooth to a stable adjacent tooth. That may be all that’s needed. It gives the ligaments time to heal. However, if the pulp of the tooth was damaged, you’ll need a root canal treatment and dental crown.
What if the tooth can’t be saved?
If it’s not possible to save the tooth you have several replacement options. The top of the line replacement is a dental implant. However, if either of the adjacent teeth is in need of a dental crown, then a dental bridge may make more sense.
If both of those options are out of your current budget, you can either find an affordable dentist who’s willing to work with you on payments or get a removable partial denture until you can afford a more stable replacement.
Either way, you need to be seen right away. This blog is brought to you by Dr. Ryan Noah.