What to do when a tooth is knocked out

If you sustain the complete avulsion of a tooth (knocked out), it is possible to save the tooth if proper steps are followed.

1. The most important factor in saving the tooth is time out of the socket. If the tooth can be safely replanted (put back into the socket), that is the most ideal scenario. First, gently clean any visible debris from the root of the tooth. Second, place tooth into socket making sure the tooth is oriented correctly. Third, apply gentle pressure until the tooth is completely seated. If the tooth does not appear to seat completely into the socket, do not force it.

2. If the tooth cannot be replanted, the next best thing is to store the tooth in a medium that will protect the root and the remaining ligament tissue cells. A tooth can be safely stored in milk, or wrapped in plastic wrap to prevent the desiccation of the root surface. Wetting the root with saliva prior to wrapping it in plastic wrap can provide additional protection. DO NOT STORE THE TOOTH IN WATER as this will destroy the ligament cells.

3. Ideally the tooth needs to be replanted or placed within an adequate storage medium within 30 minutes to prevent damage to the ligament tissue cells on the surface of the root. Extended time out of the mouth or a storage medium greatly reduces the success of saving the tooth.

4. Get in to see your dentist ASAP.