Quick Answer
What to do with a knocked out tooth during an accident?
If you need to know what to do with a knocked out tooth, lift it by the crown and keep it moist without disturbing the root. Place a permanent tooth in milk or a tooth-preservation solution and arrange urgent dental care.
Key Takeaways
- Pick up the tooth by the visible crown only.
- Remove surface dirt with a short, gentle rinse.
- Keep an adult tooth moist while traveling.
- Do not attempt to reinsert the tooth in its socket yourself.
- Never return a knocked-out baby tooth to its socket.
A forceful hit from a fall, accident, or contact sports activity can push a tooth completely out of the jaw. Dentists call this injury an avulsed tooth.
Knowing what to do if you knock a tooth out can help limit further damage while you arrange an examination. The safest response also depends on whether the missing tooth was permanent or one of the baby teeth.
How to Handle and Store a Knocked-Out Tooth
After locating the tooth, pick it up by the white part that was normally visible in the mouth. Safe holding of the tooth involves gripping the tooth by the crown and avoiding touching the root.
If you see dirt or debris, the tooth may be gently rinsed with clean water for several seconds. When you rinse the tooth, do not use a toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, or chemicals. Don’t scrub or scrape its surface.
It is acceptable to clean the tooth with water briefly, but do not leave it sitting in tap water. Use milk or an approved preservation liquid to keep it moist at all times until a dentist can examine it.
Avoid chewing on the injured side of your mouth. Pressure on the chewing surface of nearby teeth may cause discomfort if those teeth were also injured.
Adult and Baby Teeth Need Different Care
The type of missing tooth affects what should happen next.
Permanent Teeth
When permanent teeth are completely knocked out, professional evaluation should be arranged promptly. Bring the tooth to the appointment in a suitable storage liquid rather than attempting to put it back yourself.
If you are searching for a tooth knocked out what to do, remember that an empty socket may not be the only injury. A dentist must assess the tooth, gums, bone, and surrounding teeth before determining whether treatment may save the tooth.
If an adult tooth cannot be retained, replacement choices such as a bridge or dental implants may be discussed when appropriate.
Baby Teeth
Do not return a primary tooth to its socket. This action could injure the developing adult tooth underneath the gum.
A dentist can check the child’s mouth for other damage and explain whether follow-up care is needed.
Final Thoughts
Knowing what to do if your tooth gets knocked out can help you respond promptly after an accident. Knocked out teeth are urgent dental emergencies, so handle the tooth carefully, prevent it from drying, and seek professional attention as soon as possible.
Take the Right Steps After a Tooth Injury in Murrieta
When a tooth has been completely removed by an accident, contact an Emergency Dentist in Murrieta promptly. Bring the recovered tooth in milk or a preservation solution so the dental team can inspect the injury and discuss possible treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I put the tooth in a container without liquid?
No. A dry container will not protect the root from drying. Add milk or an approved tooth-preservation solution before transporting it.
What should I do if I accidentally dropped the tooth?
Pick it up again by the crown. If debris is visible, briefly rinse it with clean water without brushing or scrubbing it.
Can I eat before my emergency dental appointment?
It is best to avoid eating until you receive instructions. If you must eat, choose soft foods and keep them away from the injured area.
Does the dentist need to check the tooth next to the empty socket?
Yes. Nearby teeth may be loose, cracked, or damaged below the gumline even when they appear normal. An examination can identify these injuries.
