3 Million Teeth Knocked Out This Year By Sport

According to The National Youth Sports Safety Foundation, 3 million teeth will be lost due to sporting activities this year. For the full article, click here. In the event that a tooth is knocked out, here are the suggestions on how to increase your chance of saving the tooth!

1. Time is of the Essence! You want that tooth to be placed back in the mouth by a dentist within 30 minutes of being dislodged. 
2. Fingers Off the Root! There are key cells on the root that help a dislodged tooth return to its socket. Hold the tooth by the crown instead.
3. Milk Does a Tooth Good! Don't rinse with water or saline or any other liquids. Again, there are important factors on the tooth that you do not want to wipe away. Simply hold the tooth in a cup of milk until the dentist can place it back.

Prevention is key though! Always make sure you wear a mouth guard when playing contact sports!

Until next time,
Dr. Lynda Tran