Reviewed by Dr. Kari Badwi
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Reading time: four minutes
A fall can happen in seconds, and sometimes the result is a tooth that suddenly looks shorter or even missing. In many cases, the tooth has not fallen out but has been pushed into the gum. This can look alarming, but it is a common injury that a pediatric dentist can assess and monitor.
Table of Contents
What Happens When a Baby Tooth Is Pushed Into the Gum?
When a baby tooth is pushed upward into the gum, it is called an intrusion injury. Instead of being knocked out, the tooth is forced deeper into the socket.
You may notice that the tooth looks shorter than the others or seems to have disappeared. In some cases, only a small portion of the tooth is visible above the gumline.
Steps To Take Right Away
After a fall or injury, a few simple steps can help protect your child’s mouth and keep them comfortable:
- Stay calm and gently check the area for bleeding
- Avoid touching or trying to reposition the tooth
- Offer a cold compress or something cool to help with swelling
- Check for other injuries to the lips, chin, or head
An intruded baby tooth should be assessed by a dentist as soon as possible, even if your child seems okay. After you check your child’s mouth and rule out other injuries, call your pediatric dentist. They may want you to come the same day, especially if there is bleeding, pain, or changes in your child’s bite.
Will the Baby Tooth Come Back on Its Own?
In many cases, an intruded baby tooth will gradually move back into position on its own. This process can take several weeks or longer.
Whether the tooth re-erupts depends on factors such as the direction of the injury and your child’s stage of development. Careful monitoring is often the first step before considering any intervention.
Could This Affect the Adult Tooth?
Baby teeth sit close to the developing adult teeth underneath. Because of this, a significant injury can sometimes affect how the adult tooth forms or erupts.
After the initial injury, keep an eye on how the area changes over time:
- The tooth becoming dark or discolored
- Swelling or a small bump on the gum
- Pain when biting or chewing
- The tooth not moving back into place over time
If you notice any of these changes, contact your dentist for reassessment.
Dental Injury Care at BabyTooth
Dr. Kari Badwi approaches dental injuries with a focus on your child’s comfort and safety. She will assess how the tooth has shifted, check the surrounding area, and decide whether it is best to monitor it or move forward with treatment.
In many cases, the focus is on letting the body heal naturally while keeping your child comfortable. If treatment is needed, it is done in a calm, step-by-step way so your child feels safe throughout the visit.
Parents are included in every step of the process, with clear explanations and guidance on what to expect as healing progresses.
Emergency Dentist in SE Calgary
A dental injury can be stressful for both you and your child. Dr. Kari and her team are here to help.
To book an appointment at our pediatric dental office in SE Calgary, call (403) 873-1414 or visit us at 290 Midpark Way SE #200, Calgary, Alberta T2X 1P1.
FAQs
Can a baby tooth pushed into the gum be left alone?
In many cases, yes. However, an evaluation is still important to rule out complications. Dentists often monitor the tooth to see if it naturally moves back into place.
How long does it take for an intruded baby tooth to come back down?
It can take several weeks to a few months. Your dentist will monitor progress during follow-up visits.
What does a pushed-in tooth look like?
The tooth may appear shorter than the others or partially missing, as it has been pushed up into the gum rather than knocked out.
Should I go to the ER or a dentist for a pushed in baby tooth?
A pediatric dentist is typically the best place to start. If there are signs of a head injury or severe trauma, medical care should be sought immediately.
