Dealing with a knocked-out tooth can often be unsettling, whether your little one was playing outside or simply fell while on the sidewalk. Although you may want to save the one they lost, it may not be necessary if it was one of their baby teeth. However, a permanent one will need to be treated as quickly as possible. Is it possible to put it back in its socket yourself, or can only a dentist do this? Read on to learn three steps you should take to save your child’s knocked-out tooth!
#1: Be Gentle with the Tooth
You’ll first want to stay relaxed while handling your child’s tooth. If you’re calm, they’ll be calm. In the case of a permanent one, be sure to pick it up by the crown or the top side. Never touch the roots, as this can cause damage to the tooth and lower the chances of saving it. You can then carefully rinse off any dirt with water, but avoid scrubbing it with soap or drying it off.
#2: Try Putting It Back in Its Socket
One of the most important steps is to try preserving your child’s tooth. Since it should not be outside the mouth for long, you can try to place it back in its socket if it’s still intact. Be gentle when putting their tooth in, and tell them to hold it in place with their fingers and not to bite down. If this doesn’t work, then you’ll need to maintain its moisture another way, as letting it dry out can make it vulnerable to bacteria and lessen its chances of being saved. You can buy an emergency dental kit from your local pharmacy or place the tooth in a small container with milk. Your child may be able to hold it inside their mouth between their cheeks and gums, but only if they won’t accidentally swallow it. Make sure not to put it in water, as the particles can damage the roots.
#3: Visit Your Dentist Right Away
A knocked-out permanent tooth should be treated within 30 minutes of the incident. This will allow the best chance to save it. Once you’ve arrived at your emergency dentist, they can assess your child’s situation and see if any other damage was done before addressing the issue. They’ll be sure to keep your little one as comfortable as possible during their appointment. If they can save the tooth, they’ll likely splint it in place by using the surrounding teeth for support.
While getting a tooth knocked out can often be unexpected, you and your child don’t have to go through the experience without a plan. By keeping these steps in mind, you’ll be able to help increase the chances of restoring your little one’s smile!
About the Author
Dr. Homer Sedighi is a pediatric dentist who earned his dental doctorate from the Washington University School of Dental Medicine. He’s also a member of several groups like the Missouri Dental Association and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. He offers numerous high-quality and comprehensive services, including emergency pediatric care, checkups/cleanings, and athletic mouthguards to protect your child’s teeth. If your little one has a knocked-out tooth, don’t hesitate to visit our website or call 636-777-7777.