As a tooth becomes loose from the socket as a result of being knocked, this is known as an extruded tooth. If the tooth is not broken and its nerve and blood vessels are still attached, the tooth may be saved.
Using local aesthetic, we will clean the area to begin the treatment process. If the tooth is intact and there is no sign of infection in the bone around it, we will guide the tooth back into the socket. An X-ray may be taken to ensure there is no root fracture.
The tooth needs to be secured in its original position by connecting it to the healthy teeth on either side. There are three ways to do this:
- Using a wire and bonding it with a composite resin material along the length of the wire
- Bonding an orthodontic bracket to each tooth and then connecting these brackets (braces) with a wire
- Using a synthetic cloth or metal mesh and bonding it to the back of the teeth involved
These materials will be left on for 7 to 10 days while the tooth heals in the socket.