What Should I Do If I Knock Out a Tooth?
Acting quickly after a tooth is knocked out may improve the chances of saving it. Learn the steps to take before you reach the dentist.
Having a permanent tooth knocked out can be frightening, but acting quickly can make a significant difference. In some cases, a knocked-out tooth can be successfully replanted if it is handled properly and treated by a dentist as soon as possible.
At Grand Blanc Dental Center, Milan Sata, DDS provides emergency dental care for traumatic dental injuries. If a permanent tooth has been knocked out, contact our office immediately for instructions and emergency treatment.
What Should I Do First?
If a permanent tooth is knocked out, try to stay calm and follow these important steps:
- Locate the tooth immediately.
- Pick it up by the crown (the chewing surface), not the root.
- If the tooth is dirty, gently rinse it with clean water for a few seconds. Do not scrub it or remove any attached tissue.
- If possible, carefully place the tooth back into its socket and gently bite on clean gauze or a soft cloth to help keep it in place.
If You Can't Put the Tooth Back In
If you cannot safely reinsert the tooth, keep it moist while traveling to the dentist.
You may place the tooth in:
- A tooth preservation solution if one is available.
- Milk.
- Your own saliva (only if it can be done safely without swallowing the tooth).
Do not allow the tooth to dry out.
Call Your Dentist Immediately
A knocked-out permanent tooth requires immediate dental attention. The sooner treatment begins, the greater the likelihood that the tooth can be successfully saved.
Call Grand Blanc Dental Center as soon as possible so we can provide instructions and arrange emergency care.
What About Baby Teeth?
If a baby tooth is knocked out, do not attempt to place it back into the socket. Doing so may damage the developing permanent tooth beneath the gums. Contact our office so we can evaluate your child's injury and recommend the appropriate next steps.
Can Knocked-Out Teeth Be Saved?
Every situation is different. The success of treatment depends on factors such as how quickly the tooth is treated, how it was handled after the injury, and the condition of the surrounding tissues. Prompt evaluation gives your dentist the best opportunity to determine the most appropriate treatment.
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Call Us Immediately
If you've knocked out a permanent tooth, time matters. Call Grand Blanc Dental Center immediately at (810) 694-0200 so we can help you as quickly as possible. You may also request an appointment online if your situation is not urgent.
This article is intended for general educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional dental advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you've knocked out a permanent tooth, contact Grand Blanc Dental Center immediately at (810) 694-0200. For severe facial injuries, uncontrolled bleeding, or other life-threatening medical emergencies, call 911 immediately.
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