A knocked-out tooth can be a frightening experience, especially when it happens unexpectedly during sports, an accident, or an everyday mishap. In fact, the American Association of Endodontists estimates that more than 5 million teeth are knocked out every year in children and adults.
If this happens to you, you might wonder whether you can put the tooth back in its socket yourself. The answer is yes, in certain circumstances! Repositioning a knocked-out permanent tooth quickly can improve its chances of survival. However, it’s important to follow the right steps and seek emergency dental care immediately.
Can You Put a Knocked-Out Tooth Back in Its Socket?
If an adult tooth is completely knocked out, you may be able to gently reinsert it into its socket. This is called replantation, and it can help preserve the tooth’s supporting tissues.
Time is especially important. Ideally, you should try to reposition the tooth within 15 minutes of the injury. The longer it remains outside the mouth, the lower the chances of successful replantation.
However, never attempt to reinsert a baby tooth. Doing so could damage the developing permanent tooth underneath. If a child loses a baby tooth prematurely, contact their dentist for guidance.
What Should You Do If a Permanent Tooth Gets Knocked Out?
If you or someone nearby loses a permanent tooth, follow these steps:
- Find the tooth. Pick it up by the crown, which is the visible chewing surface. Avoid touching the root because it contains delicate cells needed for successful reattachment.
- Rinse it gently. If the tooth is dirty, briefly rinse it with milk or saline solution. If neither is available, use clean water. Don’t scrub it, scrape it, or use soap or disinfectants.
- Try to reposition it. If possible, gently place the tooth back into its socket, making sure it’s facing the correct direction. Bite down softly on clean gauze to help keep it in place.
- Keep it moist. If you can’t safely reinsert the tooth, place it in a small container of milk or an appropriate tooth-preservation solution. You can also keep it inside your cheek if you’re an adult who can do so safely without swallowing it. Don’t store it in tap water.
- Get emergency dental care. Contact your dentist immediately, even if you’ve successfully put the tooth back in its socket. You’ll need professional evaluation and stabilization.
When Should You Avoid Repositioning a Tooth Yourself?
Although reinserting a permanent tooth can improve its chances of survival, it’s not always appropriate. If the tooth is fractured, badly contaminated, or you aren’t sure how to position it, don’t force it into the socket.
You should also prioritize immediate medical attention if the injury involves significant facial trauma, uncontrolled bleeding, or a suspected jaw fracture.
Children who may accidentally swallow or inhale a tooth should never be encouraged to hold it in their mouths.
Why Is Emergency Dental Care So Important?
Even when a knocked-out tooth looks intact, the surrounding tissues and supporting structures may be damaged. A dentist can assess the injury, reposition the tooth if necessary, and stabilize it with a splint.
Follow-up appointments are also important because a replanted tooth may develop complications, including infection or root resorption. Prompt treatment and ongoing monitoring give your tooth the best possible opportunity to remain healthy.
Act Quickly to Give Your Tooth the Best Chance
A knocked-out permanent tooth doesn’t always have to mean permanent tooth loss. Knowing what to do and getting professional help right away can make a meaningful difference.
About the Practice
Wolfe Dental of Cedar Mill is dedicated to helping patients protect their oral health through comprehensive dental services. The practice offers emergency dentistry to address unexpected dental injuries and urgent concerns, helping patients get the timely attention they need when something goes wrong with their smiles.
Call us at (503) 751-2735 or schedule your appointment online