Knocked-Out Teeth Emergencies in Scottsdale, AZ

Did You Get Your Tooth Knocked Out?

A knocked-out tooth is a dental emergency that requires immediate action. Whether caused by a sports injury, accident, or fall, time is critical to saving your tooth. At Pristine Dental, our emergency dentist in Scottsdale is here to provide fast, compassionate care to restore your smile.

Do you need an emergency appointment? Contact our dental office near you today by calling (480) 935-2424. We’ll get you the care you need.

What Is a Knocked-Out Tooth?

A knocked-out tooth, also known as an avulsed tooth, occurs when a tooth is completely dislodged from its socket due to trauma. This is a serious dental emergency that can happen to anyone, from children playing sports to adults in car accidents. The tooth may be fully intact or fractured, and quick action can significantly increase the chances of saving it.

Immediate Steps to Take for a Knocked-Out Tooth

Acting quickly and correctly can make the difference between saving and losing your tooth. Follow these steps if your tooth is knocked out:

1. Find the Tooth: Locate the tooth and pick it up by the crown (the white part), avoiding contact with the root to prevent damage.
2. Rinse Gently: If the tooth is dirty, rinse it briefly (5 to 10 seconds) with clean water or milk. Do not scrub or use soap, as this can harm the root’s delicate cells.
3. Reinsert If Possible: Try to place the tooth back into its socket, ensuring it faces the right way. Gently bite down on a clean cloth to hold it in place.
4. Preserve the Tooth: If reinsertion isn’t possible, store the tooth in:
   1. A container of milk (preferred).
   2. Saliva (place it in your mouth between the cheek and gums, if safe).
   3. A tooth preservation solution (available in some first-aid kits).
   4. Never store the tooth in water, as it damages the root cells.
5. Seek Emergency Dental Care: Visit our dentist in Scottsdale within 30 to 60 minutes for the best chance of saving the tooth.

Common Causes of Knocked-Out Teeth

Common causes of knocked-out adult teeth include:

• Sports Injuries: Contact sports like football, hockey, or basketball often lead to dental trauma. Wearing a custom mouthguard can reduce the risk.
• Accidents: Car crashes, falls, or workplace injuries can dislodge teeth.
• Fights or Physical Altercations: Blows to the face are a frequent cause.
• Hard Foods or Objects: Biting down on hard candy, ice, or non-food items can knock out a tooth.

Contact our Scottsdale dentist today by calling (480) 935-2424 to schedule an appointment.

What to Expect During Emergency Dental Treatment

At Pristine Dental, Dr. Smith follows a proven protocol to treat knocked-out teeth. Here’s what happens when you arrive:

1. Assessment: We evaluate the tooth and socket using digital X-rays to check for fractures, bone damage, or other injuries.
2. Cleaning and Preparation: The tooth and socket are gently cleaned to remove debris and bacteria.
3. Reimplantation: If viable, the tooth is carefully reinserted into the socket and stabilized with a splint (a temporary brace connecting it to neighboring teeth).
4. Follow-Up Care: Our dentist near you can provide antibiotics or pain relief if needed and schedule follow-up visits to monitor healing.
5. Root Canal (If Necessary): A reimplanted tooth often requires a root canal 1 to 2 weeks later to prevent infection and ensure long-term success.

Prevention Tips for Knocked-Out Teeth

While accidents happen, you can reduce your risk of knocked-out teeth with these precautions:

• Wear a Mouthguard: Custom-fitted mouthguards from our dentist offer the best protection during sports or high-risk activities.
• Avoid Hard Foods: Don’t chew ice, popcorn kernels, or hard candies that can crack or dislodge teeth.
• Use Safety Gear: Wear helmets and face shields during activities like biking or construction work.
• Maintain Oral Health: Regular dental checkups strengthen teeth and gums, making them less prone to injury.
• Keep Emergency Contacts Handy: Save our dental office phone number for quick access.

If you need help from a dentist as soon as possible, contact our emergency dentist’s office near you. Let’s get you the care you need to prevent further complications. Call our dentist in Scottsdale at (480) 935-2424.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a knocked-out tooth always be saved?

While not guaranteed, a tooth reimplanted within 30 to 60 minutes has a high success rate (up to 90%). Quick action and proper storage (in milk or saliva) are key.

What if the knocked-out tooth is a baby tooth?

Baby teeth are typically not reimplanted to avoid damaging the permanent tooth underneath. Contact your dentist immediately for guidance.

Can I go to the ER for a knocked-out tooth?

Emergency rooms can stabilize trauma but lack dental expertise. Visit a dentist near you for more specialized care.

Save Your Natural Teeth at Pristine Dental

A knocked-out tooth is a dental emergency that demands immediate care. Every minute counts when it comes to saving your smile. If you need an emergency dentist in Scottsdale, contact our dental office today by calling (480) 935-2424.