During a dental dislocation, which often occurs following a major impact in the head area, the tooth becomes abnormally mobile. This is called a partial dislocation.

A total dislocation refers to the expulsion of the tooth from its alveolus. This trauma is called dental “extrusion” or “avulsion”. This is an emergency situation and rapid action must be taken to save the lost tooth.

Partial dislocation

• Abnormal mobility of the affected tooth (partial gum exit or depression);
• Gingival bleeding;
• Pressure pain;
• Presence of a blood clot.

Total dislocation (avulsion)

• The tooth is completely out of the gum.

The causes of dental dislocations and avulsions are very varied. The most frequently observed are:

• A major shock in the head area or directly on the tooth;
• A violent contact between a tooth and a hard food;
• A deep cavity;
• A condition of the periodontium (tissues supporting the teeth) such as periodontitis;
• A gingival recession.

Partial dislocation

A tooth that becomes mobile in its socket represents a dental emergency. It is necessary to make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible in order to obtain the appropriate care for your condition, depending on the identified causes of dental dislocation.

While waiting for your visit to the dentist, it is possible to apply cold compresses to the affected area to reduce pain.

Total dislocation (avulsion)

The best thing to do is to immediately reimplant the tooth. First of all, the tooth must be cleaned of any dirt with its own saliva. Then, you have to spit out the blood accumulated in your mouth. Finally, the tooth is repositioned in the gum. Once the tooth is replaced, it is essential to go to the dentist as soon as possible.

If, for any reason, relocation is not possible, an emergency visit to a dentist’s office is required. A fallen tooth dries out very quickly and after 60 minutes, the chances of saving the tooth are considerably reduced.

To maximize the chances of keeping your natural tooth, you must, for the duration of the trip, keep it in your mouth, place it in a saline solution (dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in a cup of water) or immerse it in milk.

Partial dislocation

• During your appointment, a thorough examination of the tooth will be carried out to determine the causes of dental mobility;
• The tooth is then replaced and held in place with a dental splint;
• In the event that the healing process fails, a root canal treatment may be performed.

Total dislocation (avulsion)

• Reimplantation of the tooth on site (followed by an emergency visit to the dental office) or directly to the dental office;
• If reimplantation is not possible, the tooth can be replaced by an implant-supported crown or bridge.

• Loss of the dislocated tooth and migration of adjacent teeth to the vacant space;
• Appearance of an abscess.

• The risk of dislocations caused by head impacts can be considerably reduced by systematically wearing a helmet during sporting activities such as cycling, boxing, hockey, downhill skiing, etc. It is also recommended to wear a mouth guard when playing contact sports;
• The risks of dental mobility caused by certain conditions, including dental caries and periodontitis, can be reduced by maintaining good oral hygiene habits, including brushing teeth 2 to 3 times a day, flossing and, if necessary, interdental brushes. Annual or biannual appointments with your dentist for cleaning (prophylaxis) and a complete examination are also essential to prevent a problem from getting worse to the point where some teeth become mobile.