A knocked-out, or avulsed, tooth is a complete displacement of a tooth from its socket in the jawbone. This is a serious dental emergency. The ligaments, nerves, and blood vessels that hold the tooth in place are severed.
The goal is to get the tooth back into its socket as soon as possible. The cells on the tooth’s root can only survive for a short time. Quick and correct action is your best chance for successful reimplantation.
Loss of Consciousness
If you were hit in the head and lost consciousness, go to the ER first.
Jaw Fracture
If your jaw is misaligned or you can't close your mouth properly, this is a major issue.
Uncontrolled Bleeding
If bleeding from the socket won't stop after 10-15 minutes of pressure.
Other Facial Injuries
Cuts to your lips, gums, or face may need attention.
Follow these steps immediately. Time matters.
Locate the tooth immediately. Pick it up by the crown (the chewing surface), not the root. Touching the root can damage the cells needed for it to reattach.
If the tooth is dirty, rinse it for a few seconds with cold milk or your own saliva. Do not use water, soap, or scrub it. Don’t wrap it in a tissue or cloth.
Try to place the tooth back into its socket. Gently push it in with your fingers, or position it above the socket and close your mouth slowly. Hold it in place by biting down on a clean cloth or gauze.
If you can't replant it, you must keep it moist. Place it in a small container of milk. If milk isn't available, keep it in your mouth, between your cheek and gum. Do not use water.
You need to see a dentist within 30-60 minutes. The sooner you get professional help, the higher the chance of saving your tooth. Call for an emergency appointment right away.
For a baby tooth, do not try to replant it. This can damage the developing permanent tooth underneath. See a dentist, but replanting is not recommended.
Handle the tooth by the crown only.
Keep the tooth moist at all times.
Try to put it back in the socket.
Use milk for storage if you can't replant.
Call an emergency dentist immediately.
Don't touch the root of the tooth.
Don't let the tooth dry out.
Don't scrub or clean the tooth with soap or chemicals.
Don't store the tooth in water.
Don't wait to see a dentist.
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A knocked-out tooth is always a reason to see a dentist. Here is what to look for.
The tooth is a permanent adult tooth.
You cannot get the tooth back into the socket.
You have other signs of facial trauma, like heavy bleeding or a possible broken jaw.
It is a baby tooth (do not replant, but still see a dentist).