Accidents happen! Whether it’s a slip during a soccer game or an unexpected tumble, a knocked-out tooth can be a real shocker. But don’t panic just yet—if you act quickly, you might be able to save it. The key is knowing what to do in those crucial moments right after the injury. Here’s a quick guide on how to handle a knocked-out tooth and increase your chances of putting it back in place.
What to Do Immediately
First things first: stay calm! Locate the tooth and pick it up by the crown (the part you see when you smile), not the root. Handling the root can damage the cells needed for reattachment. If it’s dirty, gently rinse it off with water—no soap or scrubbing. Then, try to reposition it in the socket. If that’s not possible, place the tooth in a cup of milk or tuck it between your cheek and gums to keep it moist.
Time is of the Essence!
A knocked-out tooth has the best chance of survival if it’s reinserted within 30 minutes to an hour. The longer you wait, the lower the chances it can be saved. Call your dentist immediately and head to the office or an emergency clinic as soon as possible.
How a Dentist Can Help
Your dentist will assess the tooth and socket to see if reattachment is possible. In some cases, they’ll use a special splint to stabilize the tooth while it heals. If saving the tooth isn’t an option, don’t worry—there are other treatments, like dental implants, that can restore your smile.
Emergency Dental Care at River Stone Dental Center in Germantown, MD
At River Stone Dental Center in Germantown, MD, Dr. Peajmun Razmjou and his multilingual team (fluent in German, Spanish, and Farsi) are ready to help you with dental emergencies like a knocked-out tooth. If you ever find yourself in this situation, give us a call right away! Quick action can make all the difference in saving your smile.
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