What to Do If a Tooth Falls Out? Accidents can happen anytime – a fall, a hit during sports, or any injury can cause a tooth to come out completely. This condition is called tooth avulsion. What you do in the first few minutes is very important to save the tooth.
If It’s a Baby Tooth (Milk Tooth)
- Do NOT try to put it back in place.
- Putting a baby tooth back can damage the developing permanent tooth underneath
- Control bleeding by gently pressing a clean gauze or cloth.
- Comfort the child and check for other injuries.
- Visit the dentist as soon as possible to:
- Make sure no piece of tooth is left behind.
- Check if the permanent tooth is safe.
- Plan for space maintainers if needed (to avoid future crowding).
If It’s a Permanent Tooth (Adult Tooth)
Here, time is critical – the tooth can often be saved if handled properly.
What To Do Immediately:
- Find the tooth – pick it up by the crown (the white part you see in the mouth), not the root.
- If dirty, rinse it very gently with clean water.
- Try to put it back in the socket (place) if possible, gently bite on a clean cloth to hold it.
- If you cannot place it back:
- Keep the tooth in a container of milk, or if not available, place it in your own saliva (inside the cheek).
- Never store it dry or in plain water.
- Go to the dentist immediately – ideally within 30 minutes.
At the Dental Clinic, the Dentist May:
- Replant and stabilize the tooth with a splint.
- Give medicines (like antibiotics, tetanus if needed).
- Plan root canal treatment later (for permanent teeth).
- For baby teeth, ensure permanent teeth are not damaged.
♠ Key Takeaway
- Baby teeth: Do NOT reinsert. Visit dentist to check permanent teeth safety.
- Permanent teeth: Try to reinsert quickly, or store in milk/saliva, and rush to the dentist within 30 minutes for the best chance to save it.