Dental emergencies can strike without warning, and one of the most alarming is a knocked-out tooth. Whether from a sports injury, fall, or accident, quick action can mean the difference between saving your natural tooth or needing a replacement. At Citadel Terrace Dental Group in Colorado Springs, CO, we specialize in emergency dental care, including knocked-out tooth treatment to help you restore your smile and your peace of mind.
What Happens When a Tooth Is Knocked Out?
A knocked-out tooth, also known as an avulsed tooth, is a serious dental emergency. When a permanent tooth is fully displaced from its socket, it’s not just a cosmetic issue—it can lead to nerve damage, bone loss, and long-term complications if not treated properly.
The good news? With prompt and proper care, there’s a high chance the tooth can be saved and re-implanted successfully. But time is critical—ideally, you should get professional dental care within 30 to 60 minutes of the injury.
First Aid Steps for a Knocked-Out Tooth
If you or someone you know has just lost a tooth due to trauma, follow these steps immediately:
- Find the tooth and handle it carefully by the crown (the chewing surface), not the root.
- Rinse it gently with milk or saline if it’s dirty. Do not scrub or use soap.
- Try to reinsert the tooth into the socket if possible. Bite down gently on gauze or a clean cloth to hold it in place.
- If reinsertion isn’t possible, keep the tooth moist by placing it in a container of milk, saline, or inside the cheek.
- Call your emergency dentist right away. In Colorado Springs, CO, Citadel Terrace Dental Group offers urgent dental services and same-day appointments for dental trauma.
How Citadel Terrace Dental Group Handles Knocked-Out Tooth Cases in Colorado Springs, CO
At our Colorado Springs, CO dental office, we’re fully equipped to handle dental emergencies, including knocked-out teeth. Here’s what you can expect:
- Emergency exam and X-rays to assess the injury and determine if the tooth and surrounding bone are viable for replantation.
- Sterile cleaning of the socket to remove debris or infection risks.
- Tooth re-implantation and stabilization using a splint for 1–2 weeks, allowing the tooth to reattach to the bone.
- Follow-up care, including root canal therapy if the tooth’s nerve was damaged.
Every case is different. If the tooth cannot be saved, we offer restorative solutions such as dental implants or bridges to rebuild your smile.
Why You Should Choose a Local Colorado Springs Dentist for Emergency Care
When it comes to emergency dental care, location matters. Citadel Terrace Dental Group is based right here in Colorado Springs, making it easier for residents to get immediate help when time is of the essence.
Citadel Terrace Dental Group brings over a decade of experience in restorative and cosmetic dentistry. Our practice combines cutting-edge dental technology with a compassionate, patient-first approach. We are proud to serve our Colorado Springs community and surrounding areas with accessible, prompt, and professional dental emergency care.
Prevention Tips to Avoid Knocked-Out Teeth
While accidents can’t always be prevented, here are some ways to reduce your risk:
- Wear a custom sports mouthguard during physical activities.
- Avoid using your teeth to open packaging or bottles.
- Maintain routine dental check-ups to keep your teeth and gums strong and healthy.
- Address any bite misalignments or habits like teeth grinding with your dentist.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What should I do immediately after my tooth gets knocked out?
Find the tooth, rinse it with milk or saline, and try to reinsert it into the socket. If that’s not possible, keep it moist and get to a dentist immediately.
2. Can a knocked-out tooth be saved?
Yes, especially if treated within 30–60 minutes. Our dentists in Colorado Springs can assess and re-implant the tooth if conditions allow.
3. Is it safe to touch the root of a knocked-out tooth?
No. Always handle the tooth by the crown to avoid damaging the root and the vital periodontal ligament.
4. How much does emergency treatment for a knocked-out tooth cost in Colorado Springs?
Costs vary based on severity, treatment type, and insurance coverage. Our team can provide estimates and financing options during your emergency visit.
5. What if my child knocks out a baby tooth?
Do not try to reinsert it. Call your dentist right away. At Citadel Terrace Dental Group, we can ensure that no damage is done to the developing adult tooth.
