Kids are active, and accidents can happen in an instant. Whether it’s during sports, playground fun, or a simple fall, a knocked-out tooth can be scary for both parents and children. Acting quickly and calmly can make a big difference in saving the tooth and preventing long-term damage. Here is a guide to the proper steps to take.
First, Determine: Baby Tooth or Permanent Tooth?
The first step is figuring out whether the knocked-out tooth is a baby (primary) tooth or a permanent tooth. Baby teeth are smaller and typically begin falling out around age six.
If a baby tooth is knocked out, do not try to put it back in. Reinserting a baby tooth can damage the developing permanent tooth underneath. Instead, contact your dentist to make sure no fragments remain and to check for additional injuries.
If it’s a permanent tooth, immediate action is critical.
What to Do for a Knocked-Out Permanent Tooth
Time matters. According to the American Dental Association, a permanent tooth has the best chance of survival if it’s reinserted within 30 to 60 minutes.
Follow these steps:
- Find the tooth immediately.
- Handle it carefully by the crown (the chewing surface), not the root.
- Gently rinse it with water if dirty. Do not scrub or use soap.
- Try to place it back into the socket, making sure it’s facing the correct direction. Have your child bite down gently on clean gauze to hold it in place.
If reinsertion isn’t possible, place the tooth in a container of milk or your child’s saliva. Avoid storing it in plain water, as this can damage the root cells. Then, head to your dentist or the nearest emergency dental office immediately.
Control Bleeding and Keep Your Child Calm
Apply gentle pressure with clean gauze to control bleeding. A cold compress on the outside of the mouth can help reduce swelling and discomfort. Reassure your child and keep them as calm as possible while you seek care.
Even if the tooth can’t be saved, prompt treatment reduces the risk of infection and supports future restorative options.
Preventing Future Injuries
While accidents aren’t always avoidable, wearing a properly fitted mouthguard during sports significantly lowers the risk of dental trauma. Custom mouthguards offer the best protection and comfort.
A knocked-out tooth is a dental emergency, but quick action can improve the outcome. Knowing what to do ahead of time helps you respond confidently and protect your child’s smile when it matters most.
About the Practice
Need a dentist for an emergency that your child has found themselves in? At Happy Teeth Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, our team is a compassionate group that genuinely cares about its patients. We have convenient late and Saturday office hours, not to mention being able to cater to special needs children. Come see why we’re a cut above the rest. Book online or call (267) 580-9657.