What to Do If You Knock Out a Tooth: Emergency Steps & Why Same-Day Care Matters
Losing a tooth can be scary, especially when it happens suddenly. Whether you tripped on the sidewalk, took a ball to the face during a pickup game, or your child had an accident at the playground, knowing what to do in those first few minutes can make all the difference. At Daybreak Dental in Austin, TX, we want you to feel prepared and confident if a dental emergency strikes.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through exactly what to do if you or someone you love knocks out a tooth, and why seeking
same-day dental care is absolutely critical.
First Things First: Stay Calm
A knocked-out tooth (also known as an avulsed tooth) is a true dental emergency. The good news? With quick action, it’s often possible to save the tooth and reimplant it successfully.
Start by taking a deep breath. Panicking won’t help, but following these steps just might save your smile.
Step-by-Step: What to Do When a Tooth Is Knocked Out
1. Find the Tooth
Pick it up by the crown (the chewing surface), not the root. Touching the root can damage cells that are vital for reattachment.
2. Rinse Gently (If Needed)
If the tooth is dirty, gently rinse it with milk or saline solution. If those aren’t available, use water, but don’t scrub or use soap.
3. Try to Reinsert the Tooth
If you can, gently place the tooth back into its socket and have the person bite down softly on gauze or a clean cloth to hold it in place. This is ideal and gives the best chance for saving the tooth.
4. Keep It Moist
If reinsertion isn’t possible, keep the tooth moist. Place it in a container of milk, saline, or even in the person’s mouth between the cheek and gums (if they’re old enough and won’t swallow it). Avoid storing it in water for extended periods.
5. Call Daybreak Dental Immediately
Time is critical. The best outcomes occur when a knocked-out tooth is treated within 30 minutes to an hour. Call our office right away so we can prepare for your arrival.
Why Same-Day Dental Care Makes All the Difference
When it comes to knocked-out teeth, every minute counts. Here's why you should seek immediate care:
- Reimplantation Success: The sooner the tooth is placed back, the better the odds it will successfully reattach.
- Prevent Further Damage: Delaying care can lead to complications like bone loss, infection, or the need for more extensive (and expensive) treatments.
- Pain Relief: Emergency care helps control bleeding, reduce swelling, and alleviate pain.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing you’re in the hands of a skilled dental team brings comfort in a stressful situation.
At Daybreak Dental, we prioritize emergency patients and offer same-day appointments to ensure you’re not left waiting in pain.
What If It’s a Baby Tooth?
If your child knocks out a baby tooth, don’t try to reinsert it. While it’s not usually reimplanted, you should still call our office. We’ll assess the area to make sure no permanent damage has been done to the developing adult teeth.
Tips to Prevent Dental Injuries
Accidents happen, but there are ways to lower your risk:
- Wear a mouthguard during sports or recreational activities
- Avoid chewing on hard items like ice, pens, or popcorn kernels
- Keep walkways clear to prevent slips and falls
- Supervise young children when they're running or climbing
We're Here When You Need Us Most
A knocked-out tooth doesn’t have to mean the end of your smile. With fast action and expert care, you or your child could have a full recovery.
At Daybreak Dental, we proudly serve families throughout Austin, TX, with compassionate, prompt emergency dental services. Our friendly team is trained to handle urgent situations with both skill and care.
Don’t wait, call us immediately if a dental emergency occurs.
FAQ: Knocked-Out Tooth Care
How long do I have to save a knocked-out tooth?
Ideally, you should get to the dentist within 30 minutes. The faster you act, the better the chances of saving the tooth.
What should I avoid doing with a knocked-out tooth?
Avoid touching the root, scrubbing the tooth, or letting it dry out. Never wrap it in tissue or store it in plain water.
Is milk really the best storage option?
Yes! Milk has properties that help preserve the root cells and is better than water in an emergency.
Can a knocked-out tooth be saved if it's been out for more than an hour?
It’s possible, but less likely. Call Daybreak Dental right away, and we’ll do everything we can.
Should I go to the ER or the dentist?
Go to your dentist if you can get there quickly. Most ERs aren’t equipped to handle dental reimplantation.
