As a child, a loose tooth means a visit from the tooth fairy is just around the corner. As an adult, a loose tooth means an urgent trip to the dentist is in order. Like most people in this situation, a million questions may come to mind. Where should you turn for help? What should you do to save your tooth? How can you handle the pain from home? You’ll find the answers to all these questions and more below.
Step #1: Contact Your Dentist
Whether your loose tooth is a result of an accidental elbow to the face or because of an untreated dental concern, like gum disease, priority number one is always the same: call your dentist. From there, their team can walk you through the next best steps and schedule a time for you to come in for treatment. They can also provide you with first aid instructions, if needed, and guide you through handling any puffiness or discomfort until your visit. That way, your dental emergency is as anxiety-free as possible.
Step #2: Don’t Move It With Your Fingers or Tongue
When dealing with a loose tooth, it can be oh-so-tempting to wiggle it around with your fingers or tongue. Even if your intentions are good, like trying to move it back into its proper position, you can end up doing more harm in the process. So, do your best to leave it alone until your dentist has a chance to take a look.
Step #3: Avoid Sticky, Chewy, or Hard Foods
If you have a few hours until your dental appointment, you may need to eat. To avoid irritating your teeth and gums, it is best to stick with soft foods, like soup, yogurt, and applesauce. Opting for sticky, chewy, or hard foods can exacerbate the issue, damaging your tooth even further.
Step #4: Keep It Clean
Although you won’t be able to brush and floss your teeth as usual, that doesn’t mean you can’t keep the area clean. Rinsing with a mixture of salt and water acts as a natural disinfectant, reduces puffiness, and even relieves discomfort stemming from injury. Just make sure to let the water cool down to avoid sensitivity and soreness.
Dealing with a loose tooth can be extremely stressful, which is why having the above information at the ready is so important. If you do notice a slight wiggle in your tooth or are struggling with oral pain, make sure to get in touch with your dentist right away!
About the Author
Dr. George A. Hoop earned his dental doctorate at the Emory University School of Dentistry and has spent the last 30 years helping his patients with everything from essential preventive care to last-minute emergency dentistry. He has studied at some of the nation’s most prestigious institutes, including the Dawson Academy, which makes him uniquely qualified to handle any urgent dental situation. If you are currently struggling with a dental emergency or are interested in learning more about handling a loose tooth, don’t hesitate to visit his website or give him a call at 239-594-8817.