Tooth Reattachment (Emergency) Aftercare Instructions
A day-by-day recovery guide for tooth reattachment (emergency): what to expect, how to care for yourself, and when to call. Free to read and print.
What to expect
Long-term Outlook
- •Reattached teeth need monitoring for up to 5 years
- •Root resorption or ankylosis can occur months later
- •Regular X-rays will track the tooth's root health
Tooth Reattachment (Emergency) recovery, day by day
Splint Care
- A splint has been bonded to hold the tooth in position
- Do NOT touch, wiggle, or push on the reattached tooth
- Avoid any pressure on the tooth, including biting
Diet
- Liquid diet for the first 24 hours
- No biting or chewing near the reattached tooth
- Cold, soft foods only (smoothies, yogurt, pudding)
Splint Period
- Keep the splint clean by gently rinsing with chlorhexidine mouthwash
- Brush other teeth normally but avoid the splinted area
- Soft diet throughout the splint period
- Avoid contact sports and activities that risk facial impact
Medication
- Take antibiotics as prescribed to prevent infection
- Anti-inflammatory medication as directed
- Your dentist may prescribe a calcium hydroxide dressing inside the tooth
After Splint Removal
- The tooth will be evaluated for healing and nerve response
- A root canal may be needed depending on the tooth's vitality
- Gradually reintroduce harder foods
- Regular follow-ups for 1-2 years to monitor tooth health
When to call your provider or 911
- •The splint breaks or the tooth becomes loose
- •Increasing pain around the tooth after the first few days
- •Discoloration (darkening) of the tooth
- •Swelling or pus around the gum line of the tooth
- •The tooth feels like it's shifting position
When in doubt, call your clinic. For a medical emergency, call 911.
Recovery milestones
- Day 4
Splint removal
Return for splint removal and tooth evaluation
- Day 14
Vitality assessment
Dentist evaluates nerve response and root health
For clinics
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