Losing a tooth can be scary, especially if it happens suddenly. Whether from a sports injury, accident, or a simple fall, having a tooth knocked out isn’t just painful; it’s time-sensitive. Many people panic or don’t know what to do, which can lower the chances of saving the tooth. If you or someone you care about is facing this kind of emergency, knowing what to do in the first 30 minutes can make all the difference. If you're searching for an emergency dentist in Issaquah, here’s what you need to know.
The first step is to take a deep breath and assess the situation. If there's bleeding, bite down gently on clean gauze or a soft cloth to help stop it. Try to locate the tooth. Pick it up carefully—always by the crown (the part that’s visible in your mouth), never the root. Touching the root can damage cells that help the tooth reattach.
If the tooth is dirty, gently rinse it with saline solution or milk. Don’t scrub it or use soap, and don’t let it dry out. The key is keeping the tooth moist and intact.
If possible, try to place the tooth back into the socket. Hold it in place by gently biting down on a piece of gauze. If that’s not an option, place the tooth in a container with milk or a tooth preservation product if available. Avoid water as it can damage the root surface.
Time is critical. Ideally, the tooth should be reinserted within 30 minutes for the best chance of success. Contact your emergency dentist right away and let them know you’re on your way. Early treatment can increase the chance of saving the tooth and reduce long-term complications.
The periodontal ligament, the tiny fibers that help hold the tooth in place, begins to break down quickly once the tooth is out of the mouth. The sooner the tooth is repositioned or stored properly, the better the chances of these fibers surviving.
Dentists can sometimes save a tooth that’s been out for up to an hour, but after 30 minutes, the odds drop. That’s why what you do during those first few minutes is so important.
Delaying treatment can lead to infection, bone loss, and the need for more complex dental procedures later. Even if the tooth can’t be saved, getting immediate care helps reduce pain and protect the surrounding teeth and gums.
A knocked-out tooth can often be saved, but only if you act quickly and follow the right steps. If you’ve had a fall, accident, or sports injury, time matters. Contact APEX Dental Care to reach an emergency dentist who can help right away.
Our team provides same-day care and practical support to get you out of pain and preserve your smile. Even if you’re unsure whether your situation counts as an emergency, it’s always better to check. One call could make the difference between saving your tooth and losing it permanently. Don’t wait; get the care you need without delay.
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