What to Do If You Knock Out a Tooth: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you have a knocked out tooth, acting fast is very important. A tooth knocked out by accident can often be saved if you know what to do. Immediate action helps increase the chance of saving your tooth. This guide explains each step you should take, how to store the tooth, and when to seek emergency dental care. Knowing what to do if tooth falls out can make a big difference.

What Happens When You Knock Out a Tooth?

When a tooth is knocked out, it leaves its socket in your mouth. This can happen during sports, falls, or accidents. The blood vessels and nerves attached to the tooth are damaged. However, the bone and tissue can sometimes heal if the tooth is put back quickly. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), time is critical. The sooner you act, the better the chance to save a knocked out tooth.

Immediate Steps to Take (Step-by-Step Guide)

Acting quickly can help save your tooth. Here is a simple step-by-step guide:

Stay calm. Try not to panic. Quick action is key.

Find the tooth. Pick it up by the crown (the white part), not the root.

Rinse the tooth gently. Use milk or clean water if the tooth is dirty. Do not scrub or use soap.

Try to put the tooth back in the socket. If possible, gently place it back in its spot. Hold it in place by biting down softly on a clean cloth or gauze.

If you cannot reinsert the tooth, keep it moist. Place it in milk or a tooth preservation kit if you have one.

Seek emergency dental care right away. Go to a dentist or emergency room within 30 minutes if you can.

How to Store the Tooth Safely

Sometimes, you cannot put the tooth back in your mouth. In that case, keeping it moist is very important. Here are safe ways to store a knocked out tooth:

Place the tooth in a small container of milk. Milk helps protect the tooth cells.

If milk is not available, use a tooth preservation solution if you have one.

As another option, place the tooth inside your cheek. Be careful not to swallow it.

Do not store the tooth in water for a long time. Water can damage the tooth root cells.

According to the CDC, keeping the tooth moist helps increase the chance of successful reimplantation.

What to Avoid After Losing a Tooth

After your tooth is knocked out, some actions can lower the chance of saving it. To protect your tooth, avoid these mistakes:

Do not touch the root of the tooth. Hold it by the crown only.

Do not scrub or dry the tooth. This can damage important cells.

Do not use soap, chemicals, or alcohol to clean the tooth.

Do not wrap the tooth in tissue or cloth. It needs to stay moist.

By avoiding these actions, you help keep the tooth healthy for reimplantation.

When to See a Dentist

After a tooth is knocked out, you should see a dentist as soon as possible. Ideally, visit a dental clinic or emergency room within 30 minutes. However, even if more time has passed, you should still seek help. Dentists have special tools and knowledge to try to save a knocked out tooth. They can also check for other injuries in your mouth.

Possible Treatments After Tooth Reimplantation

Once the dentist puts the tooth back in place, further care is needed. Here are some common treatments:

The dentist may use a splint to hold the tooth in place for a few weeks.

You might need antibiotics to prevent infection.

Follow-up visits will check if the tooth is healing well.

Sometimes, root canal treatment is needed to save the tooth.

Each case is different. Your dentist will explain the best plan for you.

Tips for Preventing Tooth Loss in the Future

While accidents can happen, there are ways to lower your risk of losing a tooth:

Wear a mouthguard during sports or physical activities.

Avoid chewing hard foods like ice or hard candy.

Practice good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing daily.

Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups.

Taking these steps can help protect your teeth and keep your smile healthy.

If you or someone you know knocks out a tooth, consult a dentist immediately for the best outcome.