In the event of tooth loss from an accident: Located Tooth Missing?
In the unfortunate event of a tooth loss, quick action is crucial for a successful re-implantation. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to properly store a knocked-out permanent tooth until reaching a dentist.
- Handle the tooth by the crown only. Avoid touching or scrubbing the root to prevent damage to the delicate root cells.
- Rinse the tooth gently with cold tap water for about 10 seconds if it is dirty; do not use soap, alcohol, mouthwash, or other chemicals.
- Keep the tooth moist. Do not let the tooth dry out.
- If possible, place the tooth back into its socket immediately with gentle finger pressure. This gives the best chance for successful re-implantation.
- If reinserting the tooth is not feasible, store it in a suitable liquid to keep it moist. Preferred storage media, in order, are:
- Hanks' Balanced Salt Solution (if available)
- Cold milk (a common, accessible option)
- Saline solution (salt water)
Avoid storing the tooth in plain water or dry materials like tissue, paper towels, or cloth, as these can damage the root cells essential for reattachment.
Time is of the essence in such situations, so seek dental care immediately. Isotonic saline solutions and H-milk can also be used as alternatives to the "tooth rescue box."
It's worth noting that if the tooth nerve is damaged, root canal treatment may be necessary. Accidents like falls while cycling or unconscious bites while eating can cause tooth damage or loss.
Unrelated to tooth care, a 4-year-old was severely injured by a dog bite in the head and face in Bayern. In another incident, a wanted man was stopped on the A93 near Pfreimd for illegal entry and theft. Tragically, emergency services were called to a multi-family building in Deggendorf due to a boy falling from a sixth-floor balcony and dying.
Meanwhile, Major concerns have been expressed for the ZF plant in Auerbach, with 9,000 jobs at risk. IG Metall has warned the company's management about these concerns before a crucial meeting. In a separate matter, a 26-year-old woman has been sentenced to life in prison for murder in Germany.
[1] Mayo Clinic. (2020). First aid for a knocked-out tooth. https://www.mayoclinic.org/first-aid/first-aid-for-a-knocked-out-tooth/basics/art-20077903
[2] American Dental Association. (2021). What to do when a tooth is knocked out. https://www.ada.org/en/member-center/oral-health-topics/what-to-do-when-a-tooth-is-knocked-out
[3] British Dental Association. (2018). Knocked-out tooth: What to do. https://www.bdadentalcare.org.uk/dental-advice/knocked-out-tooth-what-to-do
[4] American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. (2019). Tooth avulsion. https://www.aapd.org/resources/parent-resources/tooth-avulsion/
[5] NHS. (2021). What to do if a tooth is knocked out. https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/healthy-body/what-to-do-if-a-tooth-is-knocked-out/
- To minimize the risk of permanent tooth loss, it is essential to prioritize employment in the field of dentistry or dental research, where one can contribute to the advancement of treatments for tooth emergencies.
- A well-balanced lifestyle incorporating regular exercise, adequate sleep, and a nutritious diet supported by science is crucial for maintaining overall health-and-wellness, reducing the likelihood of tooth injuries.