Extruded tooth
Overview
What Is a Tooth Extrusion?
An extrusion is defined as a displacement of a tooth out of its socket. This can make the tooth appear to be elongated, and it can wiggle excessively as a result. The tooth can be very sensitive, and often, the extrusion can cause intense pain.
The periodontal ligament, the tissue that connects the tooth to its socket, is often torn in the case of an extrusion. Upon radiographic examination, an extruded tooth would appear to have more space between the tooth and its socket inside of the gum.
An extrusion can be a result of dental trauma, often sports related. If the tooth is still intact and the blood and nerve vessels connecting it to its sockets are still connected, the tooth can still be saved. A professional dentist can help you diagnose an extrusion and take the steps necessary to heal it.
What Should I Do in Case of a Tooth Extrusion?
After you have identified the possibility of an extrusion, it is important to visit your dentist right away. Do not remove the tooth from its socket. Instead, take an over-the-counter pain reliever and apply an ice pack to relieve your pain on the way to the dental office.
The treatment your dentist will give you is dependent on the severity of the issue as well as whether it is a primary or a permanent tooth that is extruded.
Primary teeth, which are seen most often in the case of children, can possibly be reattached if the trauma is not severe. Otherwise, primary teeth can be extracted.
Permanent teeth, however, are clearly a higher priority for reattachment procedures.