Knocked Out Tooth, What Can I Do?

What happens if my tooth gets knocked out? What can I do until I can get to a dental office?

First of all call your dentist right away, and tell them what happened. If the tooth is still intact without chipping or fractures you may be able to save it. It is important to get to a dental office as quickly as possible if this happens.

Be careful not to damage the root of the tooth, trying to only touch the crown portion of the tooth. Do not wipe or rub with anything. If you believe you can reinsert the tooth into the place rinse the tooth gently under water without scrubbing, and slowly attempt to place back into the original socket. Check in the mirror to help position correctly, the tooth should easily go back into place without using any pressure. Gently bite down to hold into place. Only permanent teeth should be reinserted. See your dentist immediately.

If you are unable to reposition tooth into the socket, place the tooth in a small glass of milk in the meantime until you are able to reach your office. If you do not have milk use saliva or water. If you are unable to get into your office call the emergency dental clinic line. A quick dental intervention will highly increase the tooth’s chance of survival.