A knocked-out tooth is one of the most urgent dental emergencies. It can occur during sports injuries, accidents, or sudden impacts. Acting quickly is crucial because a tooth can sometimes be successfully reattached if treated within a short time.
If a tooth is knocked out, locate it immediately and pick it up carefully by the crown, which is the visible top part of the tooth. Avoid touching the root because it contains delicate tissue necessary for reattachment.
If the tooth is dirty, rinse it gently with clean water, but do not scrub it. If possible, try placing the tooth back into the socket and hold it in place by gently biting down on gauze.
If reinserting the tooth is not possible, store it in milk or a container with saliva and visit a dentist immediately. The sooner you receive treatment, the better the chances of saving the tooth.
Dentists may reimplant the tooth and stabilize it with a small splint for several weeks.
Using protective mouthguards during sports activities can greatly reduce the risk of tooth loss from injuries.