Help With Failing, Missing, or Knocked-Out Teeth

A failing, missing, or knocked-out tooth occurs when a tooth is deteriorating, lost, or forcibly removed from its socket. These issues can cause pain, infection, and difficulty eating or speaking. Early treatment is important to avoid complications like bone loss or shifting teeth. Depending on the situation, care may involve reimplantation, dental implants, bridges, or dentures to restore function and appearance.

Failing Tooth

A failing tooth is one that is deteriorating due to decay, infection, or structural compromise. It may still be in the socket but is severely weakened or loose and can cause pain or infection if not treated.


Missing Tooth

This describes the complete absence of a tooth in the mouth, whether from trauma, extraction, disease, or congenital reasons. When not promptly replaced, missing teeth can lead to shifting, bite misalignment, and bone loss.


Knocked-Out Tooth

Also known as an avulsed tooth, this happens when a tooth is completely dislodged due to impact or trauma—commonly from sports injuries or accidents. Immediate dental attention is crucial, as reimplantation may be possible if addressed quickly.

Our dentist evaluates each case individually to determine the most appropriate care—whether reimplantation, dental implants, bridges, or dentures. The chosen solution depends on the condition of the tooth and surrounding structures.

What To Do If You Have A Failing, Missing, or Knocked-Out Tooth

The actions to take if you have a failing, missing, or knocked-out tooth can significantly impact your chances of saving the tooth. Here are the steps to take in each scenario:


  • Failing Tooth | If you suspect a tooth is failing due to decay, infection, or structural damage, see our dentist as soon as possible. Be sure to maintain good oral hygiene by gently brushing around the affected tooth, and use mouthwash to keep the area clean. Avoid chewing on the affected side to prevent further issues to the tooth and be sure to follow any specific instructions or recommendations given to you by our dentist.
  • Knocked-Out Tooth | Act quickly. Time is crucial in potentially saving a knocked-out tooth. Retrieve the tooth without touching its root. Rinse the tooth gently in warm water or milk, and avoid removing any attached tissues. If possible, try to reinsert the tooth in its socket and hold it in place by gently biting down on a clean cloth or gauze while you make your way to our office, or to the hospital. If reinsertion is not possible, keep the knocked-out tooth in milk (not water) and seek immediate emergency dental care.


In any case of dental emergency involving a failing, missing, or knocked-out tooth, seeking prompt professional dental care is vital. Contact our dentist or visit a hospital emergency room immediately.

Failing Dental Implants

Dental implant failure refers to a condition where a dental implant does not successfully fulfill its intended function. This failure can occur at different stages, including during the initial healing period after implant placement or even years after the successful integration of the implant. There are two primary categories of dental implant failure:


  1. Early Implant Failure | This occurs within a few months after the implant placement and before the implant has fully integrated with the jawbone (osseointegration). Causes of early failure may include inadequate bone integration, infection, implant mobility, or implant fracture.
  2. Late Implant Failure | This occurs months or years after successful implantation and osseointegration. Late failure may result from a variety of factors, such as peri-implantitis (inflammation around the implant), bone loss around the implant site, mechanical issues such as abutment or prosthetic complications, or even systemic health issues such as diabetes or autoimmune diseases.


Several other factors contribute to implant failure, including poor oral hygiene leading to infections or gum diseases around the implant area, insufficient bone density or quality at the implant site, improperly placed implants, excessive biting forces or parafunctional habits (teeth grinding), smoking, and certain systemic health conditions that can compromise healing and bone integration.


Symptoms of dental implant failure may include pain, swelling, mobility of the implant, discomfort while chewing, gum recession around the implant, or visible signs of infection. Addressing implant failure often involves a comprehensive assessment by a dental professional. Treatment may range from non-surgical interventions such as antibiotics, professional cleaning, or adjustments, to more invasive procedures such as implant removal, bone grafting, or replacing the failed implant. Preventive measures including regular dental check-ups, proper oral hygiene, following post-implant care instructions, and lifestyle modifications, play a crucial role in minimizing the risk of implant failure and ensuring their long-term success.