Support for Failing, Missing, or Knocked-Out Teeth in Orlando

A failing, missing, or knocked-out tooth can significantly impact dental health and requires prompt attention. These conditions occur when a tooth becomes loose, deteriorates, or is completely displaced from its socket.


  1. Failing Tooth | A failing tooth is one that is weakened by decay, infection, or structural damage. It may feel loose or painful and often requires immediate evaluation to prevent further complications.
  2. Missing Tooth | A missing tooth is one that is no longer present in the socket. This can result from extraction, trauma, dental disease, or congenital absence. If not replaced quickly, surrounding teeth may shift and bone loss may occur.
  3. Knocked-Out Tooth | Also called an avulsed tooth, this occurs when trauma fully dislodges a tooth from its socket. Accidents, sports injuries, or impact to the mouth can cause this emergency, and quick action increases the chances of saving the tooth.

Any situation involving a dislodged or missing tooth is a dental emergency that requires timely care. If the issue is addressed quickly, the chances of saving the tooth or restoring the area improve significantly. Depending on the condition of the tooth and supporting structures, treatment may include reimplantation, a dental implant, an implant-supported bridge, or a denture.

Steps to Take for a Failing, Missing, or Knocked-Out Tooth

The way you respond in the first minutes of a dental emergency can influence the outcome. Here is what to do in different scenarios:


  • Failing Tooth | Schedule an appointment promptly if you suspect decay, infection, or structural problems. Maintain gentle brushing around the area and use mouthwash to reduce bacteria. Avoid chewing on the affected side and follow the guidance provided by our dentist.
  • Knocked-Out Tooth | Immediate action is essential. Retrieve the tooth while avoiding contact with the root. Rinse it gently with warm water or milk and keep any attached tissues intact. If possible, reposition the tooth into the socket and hold it in place by lightly biting on clean gauze as you head to our office or a hospital emergency department. If reinsertion is not possible, store the tooth in milk and seek urgent dental care.


In all dental emergencies involving failing, missing, or knocked out teeth, immediate evaluation by a dental professional is critical.

Understanding Failing Dental Implants

Dental implant failure occurs when an implant is unable to function as intended. This may happen during the initial healing phase or even years after successful placement.


  1. Early Implant Failure | Occurs within the first few months before osseointegration is complete. Common causes include infection, inadequate bone integration, implant mobility, or fracture.
  2. Late Implant Failure | Occurs months or years later and may be related to peri-implantitis, progressive bone loss, prosthetic complications, or systemic health conditions such as diabetes or autoimmune disorders.


Other contributing factors may include poor oral hygiene leading to infection, insufficient bone quality, incorrect implant positioning, excessive biting forces or grinding, smoking, and medical conditions that affect healing and bone health.


Symptoms of implant failure can include pain, swelling, implant looseness, difficulty chewing, gum recession, or visible signs of infection around the implant. Treatment depends on the severity and may involve non-surgical care such as antibiotics or professional cleaning or more advanced approaches including implant removal, bone grafting, or replacing the implant. Preventative steps such as maintaining good oral hygiene, attending routine checkups, and following post-treatment instructions are essential for supporting implant longevity and reducing the risk of complications.