First Aid for a Knocked-Out Tooth
If your tooth is completely knocked out, follow these steps right away:
- Stay calm and act quickly – the sooner you act, the better the chance of saving the tooth.
- Handle the tooth carefully – pick it up by the crown (the white chewing surface), not the root.
- If dirty, rinse gently with clean water – do not scrub or use soap.
- Try to reinsert it into the socket – gently push it back into place and hold it there by biting down on a soft cloth.
- If reinsertion isn’t possible, keep it moist – place it in a container of milk, saline, or your own saliva. Do not let the tooth dry out.
When to See a Dentist
A knocked-out tooth is always a dental emergency. Ideally, you should see a dentist within 30 minutes for the best chance of saving the tooth. Even if more time has passed, it’s still important to bring the tooth and see a dentist immediately.
Takeaway
Timing matters — a knocked-out tooth has the best chance of survival if you act fast. Keep it moist, avoid touching the root, and see a dentist immediately.