A knocked-out tooth is a dental emergency that requires urgent attention. If the appropriate emergency steps are followed immediately after the tooth has been knocked out, the chances are very good that the tooth can be reinserted and preserved.

A tooth abscess may form if there is tooth decay. It may also occur when a tooth is broken, chipped, or injured in other ways. Openings in the tooth enamel allow bacteria to infect the center of the tooth (the pulp). Infection may spread from the root of the tooth to the bones supporting the tooth.

Infection results in a buildup of pus and tissue swelling within the tooth. This causes a toothache. The toothache may stop if pressure is relieved. But the infection can remain active and continue to spread. This can cause more pain and can destroy tissue. It needs immediate attention to prevent further damage.

Restorations or fillings all have a breaking point and will eventually fail and need replacement. No filling will last forever, and regular visits to the dentist will help determine when is the best time to be proactive and replace a restoration. However, a filling may fall out unexpectedly, and you may be faced with pain, discomfort, and a possible emergency situation. When left untreated, a lost or chipped filling could lead to a root canal and possible loss of the tooth.