Knocked-Out Tooth: What to Do Right Away

A Knocked-Out Permanent Tooth Is Urgent

If an adult tooth is completely knocked out, act promptly and contact a dentist right away. The steps below apply to a permanent tooth, not a baby tooth.

What to Do

1. Pick up the tooth by the crown. Hold the part normally visible in the mouth. Avoid touching the root.
2. If it is dirty, rinse it gently. Do not scrub the root, scrape it, or wrap the tooth in a dry tissue.
3. Keep the tooth moist. If you can safely place the permanent tooth back in its socket, do so without touching the root. If that is not possible, place it in milk or an ADA-accepted tooth-preservation product. The tooth should not be allowed to dry out.
4. Call a dentist immediately. Tell the office that a permanent tooth was knocked out and bring the tooth with you.

Do not try to reinsert a baby tooth. A dentist should evaluate the child and the injury.

When to Seek Emergency Medical Help

Call 911 or go to an emergency department for trouble breathing, heavy bleeding that will not stop, loss of consciousness, confusion, or a suspected serious head or jaw injury. Dental follow-up may still be needed after urgent medical care.

What the Dental Evaluation May Include

The dentist will examine the tooth, socket, bite, and nearby tissues. Imaging may be used when clinically useful. Depending on the injury and timing, treatment may include repositioning, stabilization, follow-up checks, or referral. A tooth that has been replanted may need additional treatment later; outcomes vary.