Partially Dislodged Tooth

A partially dislodged tooth has been pushed out of its normal position, but it has not come out completely. It may feel loose, look longer or shorter than the teeth beside it, or sit at an angle. This kind of injury usually follows a fall, a sports impact, or a blow to the face, and it needs prompt dental attention even when the pain seems mild at first.

What Partially Dislodged Tooth involves

When a tooth is partly moved, the tissues and blood supply around its root can be damaged. A dentist will usually check how far the tooth has moved, whether the root or the surrounding bone is injured, and whether the tooth can be guided back into place and held steady while it heals. The sooner the tooth is checked, the more options a dentist may have.

Signs of Partially Dislodged Tooth

• The tooth looks out of line, tilted, or longer than neighbouring teeth
• The tooth feels loose when you touch it gently
• Pain or tenderness when biting or closing your mouth
• Bleeding or swelling around the gum near the tooth

What to do right away for Partially Dislodged Tooth

• Do not try to force the tooth back into place yourself
• Avoid biting on that side and avoid wiggling the tooth
• Rinse your mouth gently with clean water if there is blood or dirt
• Keep the tooth in place if you can, and call for dental help promptly

How a dentist may help with Partially Dislodged Tooth

• Examine the tooth, the gum, and the bite
• Take an X-ray to check the root and the bone around it
• Reposition the tooth if that is appropriate, and stabilise it for a period
• Give guidance on eating, cleaning, and follow-up checks

When to seek urgent care for Partially Dislodged Tooth

Seek urgent care sooner if bleeding will not slow, swelling is spreading, you cannot close your mouth, or the injury involved the jaw or head.

General information on this page is not medical advice. A dentist who examines you can give advice for your situation.

Related emergency dental help

• Fully Dislodged Tooth
• Broken-Fractured Tooth
• Jaw Injury

Emergency Dental Services — back to the full list. Contact Emergency Dentist for general enquiries, or call for urgent help.

Frequently asked questions about Partially Dislodged Tooth

Should I push a partially dislodged tooth back myself?

No. Leave the tooth where it is and get dental help promptly. A dentist can judge whether repositioning is safe and how the tooth should be held steady.

Can a partially dislodged tooth recover?

Recovery depends on the injury, the root, and how quickly care is received. A dentist can assess the tooth and explain what follow-up is needed.

What should I avoid before I am seen?

Avoid biting on that tooth, avoid wiggling it, and avoid very hot, cold, or hard foods on that side until a dentist has checked it.