A tooth that has been jammed into the gum (intruded) may look like it has been knocked out. An X-ray may be needed to tell the difference between an intruded and a knocked-out tooth.

An intruded baby tooth will usually grow out of the gum in about 6 weeks. But some dentists will reposition or remove the baby tooth immediately so that it will not affect the top (crown) of the permanent tooth underneath it.

An intruded permanent tooth generally requires evaluation by a dentist or other health professional.

ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical ReviewerWilliam H. Blahd, Jr., MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine
Specialist Medical ReviewerDavid Messenger, MD
Last RevisedSeptember 14, 2010

Last Revised: September 14, 2010

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: William H. Blahd, Jr., MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine & David Messenger, MD

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