While it might seem unlikely, a tooth can become a choking hazard. Although not common, a dislodged tooth poses serious risks if it obstructs the airway. Understanding the circumstances and potential outcomes is important.
How a Tooth Can Become a Choking Hazard
Teeth are small, hard, and irregularly shaped, making them difficult to dislodge if caught in the throat. When a tooth enters the airway instead of the esophagus, it can create a partial or complete obstruction, preventing air from reaching the lungs. This obstruction can lead to a lack of oxygen, causing significant issues within minutes.
Teeth, particularly enamel, are hard and dense, meaning they do not break down easily if accidentally inhaled. Their size and shape allow them to lodge in the narrow passages of the respiratory tract, potentially blocking the windpipe or smaller bronchial tubes.
Situations Where Tooth Choking or Inhalation is a Risk
Several situations increase the risk of a tooth becoming dislodged and posing a choking or aspiration threat. For children, loose primary (“baby”) teeth are a common factor, especially if they fall out during eating or sleep. Children under four are particularly susceptible due to their developing chewing and swallowing abilities and a tendency to explore objects with their mouths.
Adults can also face this risk, often due to trauma from sports injuries or falls that loosen teeth. Severe tooth decay, advanced periodontal disease, or dental procedures like extractions or crown removals can dislodge a tooth. Individuals with impaired consciousness, such as patients under anesthesia, those experiencing seizures, or people with compromised gag reflexes, are at increased risk of aspirating foreign objects, including teeth.
Beyond Choking: What Happens If a Tooth is Swallowed or Aspirated
When a tooth becomes dislodged, it can be swallowed into the digestive system or aspirated into the respiratory tract. Swallowing is generally the less concerning outcome. Most swallowed teeth pass through the digestive system without issues, typically exiting the body within 24 to 48 hours. While rare, complications like impaction or perforation of the digestive tract can occur, prompting symptoms such as abdominal pain, vomiting, or blood in stool.
Aspiration, where the tooth enters the lungs, is a more serious event. This can lead to immediate symptoms like coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Long-term complications include pneumonia, lung abscess, or lung collapse, and medical intervention, such as a bronchoscopy, is often necessary for removal.
Preventive Measures and Immediate Action
Preventive measures can help reduce the risk of choking on a tooth. Regular dental check-ups are important for both children and adults to address loose teeth or dental issues proactively. For children, adult supervision during meals and encouraging proper chewing habits can help. Adults participating in contact sports should wear mouthguards to protect their teeth.
If someone is choking on a tooth, immediate action is necessary. If the person can cough forcefully, encourage them to continue coughing. If they cannot speak, cough, or breathe, abdominal thrusts (Heimlich maneuver) should be performed for adults and older children. For infants, a combination of back blows and chest thrusts is recommended. In any choking emergency, call emergency services. If a tooth is suspected to have been swallowed or aspirated, seek immediate medical attention, even if symptoms appear mild, to determine its location and prevent complications.