With the hectic lifestyles that we lead and all our sporting activities, tooth avulsion is a problem. More and more sports are making mouthguards a priority which is decreasing the incidence of accidents. Although leisure activities such as skateboarding, roller blading, etc., are adding to the problem. Also people with prominent teeth (see orthodontic section) have a higher incidence of tooth damage occurring. Acting quickly when a tooth is lost can save the tooth.

What to do

The most important thing to do is to get the tooth back into its socket as quickly as possible. The longer the tooth is out of its socket decreases the chances of success.

1. Always remain calm. Once the tooth has been found then see how dirty it is. The best solution to clean a tooth is in milk or saline solution. Gently rinse the tooth. DO NOT SCRUB IT CLEAN, as you will remove the bony attachment from the tooth and do not touch the root surface.

2. Putting it back in place you will need to use the other teeth as a guide and make sure the tooth is facing the right way. Push the tooth back into its socket using a quick, forceful motion until the tooth is in the right place.

3. If you cannot put the tooth back into place then you need to see a dentist immediately. The best solutions to store the tooth is in milk or saline solution. Otherwise wrap it in glad wrap or place the tooth in the patients mouth next to the cheeks. This will keep the bony attachment cells on the tooth alive and increase the chances of success.

4. A dentist will need to be seen immediately. They will either place the tooth into position for you or see whether you have done a good job. The tooth will then be splinted to the other teeth to hold it in place.

Follow up visits will be made to determine the treatment plan for the tooth. In many cases root canal therapy (see 'Tell me about dentistry") will have to be performed. Just remember that the chances of success are higher the quicker the tooth is placed back into its socket.