What to Do If You Knock Out a Tooth

Experiencing a knocked-out tooth is a dental emergency that can be alarming, but quick action can greatly increase the chances of saving your tooth. Here's a step-by-step guide on what to do if you find yourself in this situation.

1. Stay Calm and Act Fast

A knocked-out tooth, or an "avulsed" tooth, is one of the few dental emergencies where acting quickly is critical. Try to remain calm and follow these instructions within 30 minutes of the accident to give your dentist the best chance of re-implanting the tooth.

2. Handle the Tooth with Care

When picking up the tooth, only hold it by the crown (the white part of the tooth) and avoid touching the root. The root contains sensitive tissue that needs to stay intact for the tooth to be reinserted.

3. Rinse the Tooth Gently

If the tooth is dirty, gently rinse it with water. Avoid scrubbing or using soap, as this could damage the root. Do not dry the tooth or wrap it in a tissue.

4. Try to Reinsert the Tooth

If possible, carefully place the tooth back into the socket. Gently push it into place and bite down softly on gauze or a clean cloth to hold it in position.

5. Keep the Tooth Moist

If reinserting the tooth isn't an option, it's important to keep the tooth moist. Place it in a container of milk, saline solution, or your saliva. Avoid letting the tooth dry out, as this reduces the chances of a successful reimplantation.

6. Seek Immediate Dental Care

Time is critical. Contact your dentist immediately or go to an emergency dental clinic. The sooner you receive professional care, the higher the chances of saving the tooth. Dentists typically have the best success in reattaching teeth if seen within an hour of the incident.

7. Follow Post-Care Instructions

Once the tooth has been reimplanted, follow your dentist's care plan to ensure proper healing. You may need a splint to stabilize the tooth or further treatment depending on the injury's severity.