Losing a tooth can be a shock, but don’t panic—you might be able to save it if you act quickly. Whether it got knocked out during a game, an accident, or just an unlucky hit, what you do in the first few minutes matters most.
Step 1: Find the Tooth
First things first—locate the tooth as soon as you can. When you pick it up, only touch the top part (the crown). The root is super sensitive, so try not to mess with it.
Step 2: Give It a Quick Rinse
If it’s dirty, rinse it off gently with water. Don’t scrub it, use soap, or apply any chemicals—just a quick rinse will do.
Step 3: Try to Put It Back in Place
If possible, gently push the tooth back into its socket. Bite down softly on a clean cloth or gauze to hold it in place. If it doesn’t fit easily, don’t force it—just move on to the next step.
Step 4: Keep It Moist
A dry tooth won’t last long, so keeping it moist is key. Here’s how:
- Drop it in a small container of milk
- Hold it inside your cheek (if it’s safe to do so)
- Use a tooth preservation kit (you can find these at most pharmacies)
Step 5: Contact Our Dentist ASAP
Time is everything—seeing a dentist quickly gives you the best shot at saving the tooth. The sooner, the better! As specialists in urgent dental issues, we are ready to address your needs and provide prompt relief when you need it most.
What Happens at the Dentist?
Once you get there, the dentist will:
-Check the tooth and the surrounding area
-Try to reinsert and stabilize it
-Decide if a root canal is needed
-Give you aftercare instructions for healing
Don’t Wait—Act Fast!
A knocked-out tooth doesn’t always mean it’s gone for good—but you have to move fast. If this happens, call our emergency dental office right away and follow these steps to give your tooth the best chance of survival.
If you’re dealing with a knocked-out tooth or any other dental emergency needs, Scarsdale Dental Spa has you covered 24/7. Our experienced team is available around the clock to provide expert emergency dental care when you need it most.
