The other day, I had a hard blow to my face, and the upper right first premolar was loose. Now it feels even more loose, and I fear it will come out soon. I have tied floss around the teeth in front and behind the loose one and made a knot to keep it in place. I don’t have dental insurance, so I haven’t really seen a dentist in over a year. If the tooth falls out before I figure out what to do, can the emergency room reattach it? Thanks. Seth from NJ
Seth,
Please see a dentist immediately. An emergency room is equipped for medical emergencies, not dental emergencies.
Can You Get Your Tooth Reattached?
Whether a dentist can reattach a tooth depends on its condition and how long it has been out of the socket. Handle the tooth carefully and keep it moist without touching the tooth roots. See a dentist immediately.
What Is the Treatment for a Loose Tooth?
A loose tooth must be stabilized to strengthen its attachment to ligaments, bone, and gums. According to the American Association of Endodontists, a dentist or endodontist may recommend the following treatment for a loose tooth:
- Repositioning and stabilizing the tooth
- Root canal treatment to remove infection
- Replacing damaged tooth pulp with a root canal filler material
Please don’t delay scheduling an appointment because you don’t have dental insurance. A dentist may be able to save your tooth, but delays can increase the risk of losing it.
Many dentists accept same-day appointments. Call a few of them, explain that you don’t have dental insurance, and ask about payment plans.
Sugar Land implant and cosmetic dentist Dr. Siny Thomas sponsors this post.