If a baby tooth gets knocked out, no harm done -- it was coming out eventually. Permanent (adult) teeth, on the other hand, are supposed to stick around for a while. If you or your child has a permanent tooth knocked out of its socket, here are the steps for saving it, courtesy of the American Dental Association.
Time Required: Respond quickly
Here's How:
- Stay Safe. If you are not the victim, practice universal precautions and wear personal protective equipment if available. Avoid whatever caused the tooth to get knocked out in the first place (out of control horse, football practice, riding without a helmet, angry boyfriend, etc).
- Hold the tooth by the crown and rinse off the root of the tooth in water if it’s dirty. Don't scrub it or pick any tissue off of it -- just rinse.
- If you can, gently re-insert the tooth in its socket. Hold it in place with your finger, and go to the dentist or the emergency department as soon as possible.
- If holding it in place isn’t possible, drop it in a glass of milk. Don't forget to take the milk with the tooth in it when you go to the dentist or the ER.
Source:
"Dental Emergencies & Injuries." ADA. American Dental Association. 01 Feb 2009
