What to do when you've lost a tooth

As a child, losing a tooth is a rite of passage into adolescence. However, as an adult, tooth loss can feel much more serious and lead to issues with self image and a lack of confidence. This is especially traumatic for adults as permanent teeth in adulthood and meant to last a lifetime. However, In this circumstance, replacing a lost tooth is important not only for cosmetic reasons, but for medical reasons too - and the trick is, to act fast! Many people experience tooth loss for any number of reasons, from injury, or poor dental health, whatever your reason is, there is no need to suffer in silence.

Injury to teeth

One of the biggest reasons for tooth loss, is due to accidental trauma. If this happens, here's what to do.

Act fast!

Find the tooth

Rinse the tooth with a sterile saline solution

Store the tooth in milk or saline solution

Get to a dentist asap

Decay or gum disease

Extensive tooth decay can become widespread and damage your tooth structure, to a degree that it no longer functions properly. If you're suffering from a toothache or notice dark spots on your teeth, it's important to contact your dentist. Extensive decay can be salvaged without losing the tooth, as long as it is caught early.

Gum disease

Gum disease is a sneaky, progressive disease, and here's why: The first stage, called gingivitis, occurs when bacterial plaque is not thoroughly removed from your teeth. Red, swollen and bleeding gums are the telltale signs of this infection, but the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR) assures that this condition is easily reversible with daily brushing and flossing – and a professional cleaning at the dentist's office.

It is not until the late stages of gum disease that your teeth become loose or fall out. If you notice any signs or are worried about gum disease here is what to do:

Keep on top of plaque build up by improving brushing and flossing

Schedule a proper cleaning with your dentist

If your case is more severe a root planing procedure may be performed

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If you are worried about any of the above, contact us today