Overview of tooth loss emergencies

When a permanent tooth is knocked out, there's a brief window of time when it can be successfully replanted. The faster you act, the better the chances of saving the tooth. Ideally, replanting should happen within minutes. Proper handling before reaching the dentist is just as important as professional care.

Immediate steps to take

  • Pick up the tooth carefully, holding it only by the crown (the top part). Avoid touching the root to preserve vital root cells.

  • Examine the crown and root for cracks or missing fragments. Let your dentist know if any part appears damaged.

  • Do not rub, scrape, or clean the tooth aggressively. Avoid wrapping it in tissue or cloth, as this can damage the root surface.

  • If the tooth is dirty, briefly rinse it using cow’s milk or your own saliva. Do not rinse under tap water, as chlorine and pressure may damage the root cells.

How to replant the tooth

  • Try to gently insert the tooth back into its socket. Do not force it if it doesn’t go in easily.

  • If the tooth goes into the socket partially, bite down slowly and gently on clean gauze or a damp paper towel to hold it in place.

  • Keep the tooth stable in the socket and get to the dentist as quickly as possible.

If replanting isn’t possible

  • Place the tooth in a small, clean container filled with cow’s milk or your saliva (spit directly into the container).

  • Alternatively, use a commercial tooth preservation solution that’s approved by the American Dental Association (ADA) if available nearby.

  • Never leave the tooth dry. This dramatically reduces the chance of successful replanting.

When to seek emergency dental care

  • Get emergency dental attention immediately. If a dentist isn't available, go to the nearest hospital emergency room.

  • Time is critical. Even with proper handling, delays beyond 30–60 minutes lower the success rate of replantation.

Important notes about baby teeth

  • Baby teeth are not replanted when knocked out.

  • Replanting baby teeth can cause complications to developing permanent teeth beneath the gum line.

  • If a child loses a baby tooth early due to trauma, consult a pediatric dentist for proper follow-up care.

Chances of saving the tooth

  • If you can see a sharp or shiny surface in the socket, it may be a fragment of the root still inside. In this case, the remaining tooth may still be replanted, but success is less likely.

  • The sooner the tooth is placed back or stored correctly and professional care is received, the better the prognosis.