Retrieve the tooth, hold it by the crown (the part that is usually exposed in the mouth), and if it’s dirty remove particles with the patient’s saliva or a quick 5-second rinse with water. Do not scrub it or remove any attached tissue fragments.
If possible, try to put the tooth back in place.
Make sure it’s facing the right way. Never force it into the socket. If it’s not possible to reinsert the tooth in the socket, put the tooth in a small container of milk, wrap in cling film or if possible ask the patient to place the tooth against their cheek in their mouth.
In all cases, see a dentist as quickly as possible. Knocked-out teeth with the highest chances of being saved are those seen by the dentist and returned to their socket within 1 hour of being knocked out.
When your child’s baby (or primary) teeth are injured, they can be aesthetically restored, but in general, we don’t recommend placing a knocked-out baby tooth. Further damage can be caused to the soft permanent tooth that is still developing underneath.
