What to Do If You Knock Out a Tooth

It’s the kind of moment that makes your heart drop: whether it’s a sports injury, a slip on the sidewalk, or an accidental bite gone wrong, you suddenly realize a tooth is no longer where it should be.

While the sight of a knocked-out tooth can be unsettling, quick action before visiting an emergency dentist in Charlotte, NC, can mean the difference between saving it and losing it for good.

The Emergency Game Plan: From Accident to Dentist

Stay Calm and Act Quickly

The first rule in any dental emergency is to take a deep breath and try to stay calm. While panic is a natural reaction, every minute counts, and the sooner you act, the better the chances of saving your tooth.

Ideally, a knocked-out tooth should be re-implanted within 30 minutes to an hour. Call your dentist right away and let them know you’re on the way. Most dental offices reserve time for emergency visits and being prepared helps the team treat you immediately.

Handle the Tooth Carefully

If you’ve managed to find the tooth, resist the urge to scrub it or handle it carelessly. Always pick it up by the crown (the part you see when you smile). Avoid touching the root, as it contains delicate fibers that are essential for successful reattachment.

If the tooth has dirt or debris on it, rinse it gently with milk or a saline solution. Never use soap, alcohol, or hot water, as these can damage the tooth and reduce the chances of saving it.

Keep the Tooth Moist

A tooth that dries out is far less likely to be re-implanted successfully. The best-case scenario is to place the tooth back into the socket if you feel comfortable doing so. Bite down softly on a piece of gauze to keep it in place until you reach the dentist.

If reinsertion isn’t possible, store the tooth in a small container of milk or a tooth preservation solution if you have one.  

Another option is to tuck it carefully inside your cheek to keep it moist, but this should only be done for older children and adults who can hold it without swallowing.

Never wrap the tooth in tissue or leave it exposed to air; it must stay moist at all times.

Seek Immediate Dental Care

Even with careful handling, the most important step is to see a dentist as soon as possible. Call ahead to explain the situation so the team can prepare for your arrival.

Once you’re in the office, your dentist will examine the area, clean the tooth, and, if possible, reinsert it into the socket. The tooth may then be stabilized with a splint, allowing it to heal and reattach over time.

In some cases, your dentist may also prescribe antibiotics or recommend follow-up treatments to reduce infection risk.

What Happens If the Tooth Can’t Be Saved

Even with fast action, sometimes a knocked-out tooth can’t be re-implanted. If this happens, modern dentistry offers several effective solutions, such as dental implants, bridges, and dentures.

Seeing a dentist quickly is still essential. Prompt treatment prevents infection, protects the surrounding teeth and gums, and sets the stage for the best long-term solution.

Call Our Emergency Dentist in Charlotte, NC, to Save Your Smile

At Seitlin Dental, our experienced emergency dentist is ready to provide swift, effective treatment so you can protect your smile and restore your peace of mind. Book your emergency appointment today!