708-422-1900 A tooth avulsion, or in other words when a tooth is knocked-out, is a serious dental injury that often occurs while playing sports, especially contact sports. All cases of tooth avulsion are different, so it is likely that the treatment needed with differ between cases as well. The good news is that there is hope of re-implanting an avulsed tooth!
Our doctors, Dr. Chris Pallotto are familiar with dental injuries and is an expert at evaluating diverse cases. Furthermore, our team at Oak Dental Associates in Oak Lawn, Illinois, is capable and eager to aid you in all of your oral health needs.
This first step in the process of repairing the damage will be to replace the tooth and this can be simple or complicated depending on the case. First, any debris will be flushed from the socket with water, and then the tooth will be slipped back into place. It is important that the step of replacing the tooth back in the socket is done as soon as possible.
If a tooth has been completely knocked-out, then a root canal will be necessary at some point, but when this procedure is done will depend on how long the tooth was out of the mouth and other factors. In any case, the avulsed tooth will most likely need to be splinted to the teeth on either side of it with a soft wire and/or composite material so that it stays in place. The amount of time the splint must remain in the mouth will vary.
If the bone around the tooth was not fractured, then the root will generally reattach itself to the bone within a few weeks. If the damage was more severe, then more time will be required for it to heal properly. If you have any questions or concerns about what happens when a tooth is knocked-out, please call at 708-422-1900 to schedule an appointment with a member of our friendly team.