A knocked-out permanent tooth is a time-sensitive dental injury. Prompt action can affect whether the tooth can be saved.
ADA first-aid guidance for a knocked-out permanent tooth
- Handle the tooth by the crown, not the root.
- Keep it moist.
- If possible, place it back in the socket without touching the root.
- If that is not possible, keep it in milk, between the cheek and gums, or in an ADA-accepted tooth preservation product.
- Get to a dentist right away.
Do not treat a knocked-out baby tooth the same way. A dentist should advise on injuries to primary teeth.
General emergency guidance on this site is informed by patient education from the American Dental Association's MouthHealthy program and the American Association of Endodontists. It is educational and does not replace an examination by a dentist.