A knocked out tooth is one of the most urgent dental emergencies — and knowing what to do in the first few minutes can make the difference between saving the tooth or losing it permanently. Whether the injury happens during sport, a fall, or an accident, fast and calm action is essential.
In this guide, we'll explain exactly what a knocked out tooth emergency is, what steps you should take immediately, how to store the tooth properly, and when to seek urgent dental care. We'll also walk through how dentists treat a knocked out tooth, what factors affect whether the tooth can be saved, and how to protect your smile afterwards. While every situation is different, early professional treatment offers the best chance of a successful outcome.
What Is a Knocked Out Tooth?
A knocked out tooth (also known as dental avulsion) occurs when a tooth is completely displaced from its socket due to trauma.
Common Causes
- • Sports injuries
- • Slips, trips and falls
- • Car accidents
- • Physical impact to the face
What to Do Immediately After a Tooth Is Knocked Out
Quick action improves the chance of saving the tooth.
Step-by-Step Emergency Care
- • Find the tooth and pick it up by the crown only.
- • Rinse gently if dirty — do not scrub or touch the root.
- • Try to place it back in the socket if possible.
- • If not, store it in milk or saliva (not water).
- • Get to a dentist immediately.
What Not to Do
Avoid These Common Mistakes
- • Don't scrub or sterilise the tooth.
- • Don't let it dry out.
- • Don't delay seeking dental care.
- • Don't store it in tissue or dry cloth.
How Dentists Treat a Knocked Out Tooth
Reimplantation and Stabilisation
The dentist may reposition the tooth and splint it to neighbouring teeth.
Monitoring and Follow-Up
Ongoing reviews ensure the tooth heals and remains stable.
What Affects Whether the Tooth Can Be Saved?
- • Time out of the mouth
- • How the tooth was stored
- • Age of the patient
- • Extent of damage
⏱️ Treatment within 30–60 minutes gives the best prognosis.
People Also Ask — Knocked Out Tooth FAQs
Can a knocked out tooth be saved?
Often yes — especially if treated quickly and handled correctly.
Should I clean a knocked out tooth?
Only rinse gently if dirty — never scrub or disinfect it.
Can a baby tooth be reinserted?
No — baby teeth should not be replanted due to risk to adult teeth.
Is this a dental emergency?
Yes — it requires immediate dental attention.
Need Urgent Help for a Knocked Out Tooth?
If someone has lost a tooth due to injury, contact a dentist immediately.