Expert: Mark Bornfeld DDS - 4/2/2005

Question
Thanks for answering my question but I a few other questions.  What foods may help the healing of the tooth, and what foods should I avoid.  Initially the tooth was not movable and after a week it wiggles a little.  I do not want to let the tooth die, and just wondering what can be done to salvage it.  I'm also 17 if that provides any more information

Thanks in advance

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Followup To
Question -
I recently bent my front tooth outward but i managed to push it back into place.  After a week, the tooth is a little loose.  I was wondering if there are any techniques other than getting a root canal.  Maybe massaging the gums or using a special toothpaste?
Answer -
Dear Jeffrey,

The long-term viability of a tooth that has been displaced in its socket depends on several different factors: the distance the tooth has been displaced, the amount to which the tooth has been loosened, the age of the patient, the stage of development in which the tooth incurs the injury, as well as individual variation in the physiological factors of the patient.

In some cases, root canal treatment is not necessary to salvage the tooth; in others, the tooth will be lost despite root canal treatment or other heroic efforts at salvage. Many dentists advocate that a loosened tooth be splinted to a nearby stable tooth to protect it from the potentially damaging forces of chewing during the healing process.

I would advise that you consult with your dentist. He will be able to prescribe a rational course of action based on the specific conditions existing in your mouth.

Hope this helps...

Mark Bornfeld DDS
www.dentaltwins.com
Brooklyn, NY

Answer
Dear Jeffrey,

As I stated previously, the appropriate course of action depends on the specific conditions that exist in your mouth, so the nature of the treatment would depend on a complete assessment of the situation-- something this forum does not permit. The only appropriate thing to do is to present yourself in person to your dentist, who can then formulate a treatment plan to meet your specific needs.

As far as the selection of foods, this is more a question of texture and consistency rather than nutrition, assuming you have a fairly normal nutritional balance. The greatest risk derives from the chewing forces to which this tooth is exposed, so you should select a soft diet.

In any case, I would urge you to visit your dentist ASAP.

Mark Bornfeld DDS