A knocked-out adult tooth is a dental emergency requiring immediate action, ideally within 30-60 minutes, to save it.

A tooth can be knocked out after a blow to the mouth or an accident. This can happen during sports, falls or other injuries.

A knocked-out tooth can sometimes be successfully reinserted – but you must act quickly.

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First things first

• Stay calm.
• Hold a clean cloth or handkerchief over the empty socket.
• Bite down gently to help stop the bleeding.
• If you need pain relief, avoid aspirin as it can increase bleeding.
• Do not use clove oil on the area.

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If you have the whole tooth

The tooth should be put back as soon as possible, ideally within 30 minutes.

It may still work up to 60 minutes, but the sooner the better.

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What should I do with the tooth?

• Only touch the crown (the white part you see in the mouth).
• Do not touch the root.
• If it is dirty, gently rinse it with milk or clean tap water.
• Do not scrub it.
• Do not use disinfectant.
• Do not let it dry out.

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Putting the tooth back

If you can:

• Hold the tooth by the crown.
• Gently push it back into the socket, root first.
• Bite down on a clean cloth or handkerchief for 15–20 minutes.
• Get to a dentist immediately.

If the tooth is broken or not complete, do not try to put it back. See a dentist urgently.

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What if I can’t put it back?

If you can’t reinsert the tooth:

• Store it in milk if possible.
• If milk is not available, keep it in the person’s mouth between the cheek and gums (only if safe to do so).
• Do not store it in water for long periods.
• Get to a dentist urgently.

Getting emergency dental care

• Call your dental practice right away.
• Explain that a tooth has been knocked out.
• Most practices provide emergency advice, even outside normal hours.

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What if I can’t find the tooth?

You may have swallowed it.

If you think it may have been swallowed or breathed in, medical checks and an X-ray may be needed.

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What if it’s a baby tooth?

Baby teeth are usually not replaced. This could damage the adult tooth growing underneath.

Contact a dentist as soon as possible for advice.

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What treatment might be needed?

If the tooth is successfully put back:

• It may be splinted to nearby teeth to hold it still while healing.

If the tooth cannot be saved:

• A temporary denture may be used at first.
• Later options may include a bridge or a dental implant.

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How can I prevent having knocked-out teeth?

If you play sports, especially contact sports, wear a mouthguard.

A dentist can make one that fits your teeth properly for the best protection.

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Summary

A knocked-out tooth is a dental emergency. Acting fast can make all the difference.