Having a tooth knocked out can be a genuinely alarming experience. Whether it happens during a sports game, an accident, or an unexpected fall, knowing what to do in the first few minutes can make a big difference. In some cases, a knocked-out permanent tooth can be saved—but should you put it back into its socket yourself?
The short answer is yes, if you’re able to do so safely. However, there are some important precautions to follow.
Handle the Tooth Carefully
If you find the tooth, pick it up by the crown, which is the part normally visible above the gumline. Avoid touching the root. The root contains delicate tissues that are important for successfully reinserting the tooth.
If the tooth is dirty, gently rinse it with milk or saline. You can also briefly rinse it with clean water, but don’t scrub the tooth or use soap or disinfectant. You want to remove visible dirt without damaging the tissues on the root.
Can You Put the Tooth Back Yourself?
If it’s a permanent tooth and you’re comfortable doing so, you may carefully place it back into its socket. Try to position it the same way it was originally situated, and gently bite down on clean gauze or a soft cloth to help keep it in place.
However, don’t force the tooth into the socket. If you can’t easily reposition it, or you’re unsure whether it’s oriented correctly, keep it moist and seek emergency dental care instead.
Children and anyone who may have difficulty cooperating should not be encouraged to reinsert a tooth themselves, as there’s a risk of swallowing or inhaling it.
Keep the Tooth Moist
If you can’t put the tooth back in its socket, keeping it moist is extremely important. Place it in a container of milk or an appropriate tooth-preservation solution if one is available. You can also carefully hold the tooth between your cheek and gums if you’re an older child or adult who can do so safely.
Avoid storing the tooth in plain water for an extended period because it can damage the cells on the root.
Get Emergency Dental Care Immediately
Even if you successfully put the tooth back into its socket, you still need to see a dentist as quickly as possible. A knocked-out tooth is a dental emergency, and prompt treatment can improve the chances of saving it.
A dentist may stabilize the tooth with a splint and evaluate the surrounding bone, gums, and neighboring teeth. Additional treatment, such as root canal therapy, may also be necessary depending on the condition of the tooth.
Keep in mind that these instructions apply to permanent teeth. A knocked-out baby tooth should not be placed back into the socket because doing so could potentially damage the developing permanent tooth underneath.
When a tooth gets knocked out, staying calm and acting quickly can give it the best possible chance of being saved.
About the Practice
Dr. Derek and Dr. Chenet provide comprehensive dental care for patients who need both routine and urgent dental treatment. The practice offers emergency dental services for situations such as dental injuries, helping patients receive timely evaluation and treatment when unexpected problems arise. The dental team works with patients to address urgent concerns while also supporting their long-term oral health.
Call us at (321) 253-3136 or schedule your appointment online.