A knocked-out tooth, also known as a tooth avulsion, is a true dental emergency. Acting quickly can make the difference between saving and losing the tooth.
The good news is that if the right steps are taken immediately, there is a much better chance of successfully replanting the tooth.
First, Is It a Baby Tooth or an Adult Tooth?
If it’s a baby tooth, do not put it back into the mouth. Replanting a baby tooth can damage the developing adult tooth underneath. Contact your dentist as soon as possible for advice.
If it’s an adult tooth, time is critical.
What Should You Do?
- Find the tooth immediately.
- Hold it by the crown (the white chewing surface), not the root, to avoid damaging the delicate cells needed for healing.
- If the tooth is dirty, gently rinse it with milk or saline for no more than 10 seconds. If these aren’t available, use the patients own saliva. Do not scrub, brush, dry the tooth or wash in water.
- If possible, gently place the tooth back into its socket and ask the person to bite gently on a clean cloth or gauze to hold it in place.
- If you can’t reinsert it, keep the tooth moist by placing it in cold milk, saline, or inside the person’s cheek (only if they are old enough not to swallow it). A specialised tooth preservation kit is even better if available. Never store the tooth in tissue or let it dry out.
Time Matters
The best chance of saving the tooth is if it is replanted within 30 minutes. After 60 minutes, the chance of long-term success decreases significantly because the cells on the root surface begin to die.
Even if more than an hour has passed, you should still see a dentist immediately, as replantation may still be worthwhile.
What Will the Dentist Do?
Your dentist will examine the tooth and surrounding tissues, take X-rays, and, if appropriate, reposition and stabilise the tooth with a flexible splint for a short period while it heals.
Root canal treatment is often required for mature adult teeth after they have been replanted.
Can a Knocked-Out Tooth Be Prevented?
Not every accident can be avoided, but wearing a custom-made mouthguard during contact sports greatly reduces the risk of dental injuries.
The Bottom Line
A knocked-out adult tooth can often be saved—but only if you act quickly. Handle the tooth carefully, keep it moist, and seek emergency dental care immediately.
At Dural Dental Practice, we understand that dental accidents are stressful. If you or your child has a knocked-out tooth, contact us immediately. Prompt treatment gives the best chance of saving your natural smile.
