Knocked-out tooth

What it is

If an adult (permanent) tooth is knocked out, it is a dental emergency - but it can often be saved. The NHS advises putting it back in the socket, or keeping it in milk or saliva, and getting to a dentist as quickly as possible. The Oral Health Foundation says the best chance is within 30 minutes, although it may still work up to an hour.

Handle the tooth only by the crown - the white part you normally see - and never by the root. Do not scrub it or let it dry out. Baby teeth are different: never try to put a baby tooth back, as it can damage the adult tooth developing underneath.

At the dentist, a replanted tooth is usually held in place with a splint for a few weeks, and it will often need further treatment such as root canal treatment later. If the tooth cannot be saved, there are ways to replace it once the area has healed.

Signs and causes

Ways to fix it

The options a dentist may discuss with you, and when each one tends to be used. Which one suits you depends on an examination.

1. Root canal treatment

   Often needed a couple of weeks after a tooth is put back, as the nerve is usually damaged.

   Available on the NHSRestorative

2. Dentures

   A temporary false tooth while the socket heals if the tooth cannot be saved or found.

   Available on the NHSRestorative

3. Bridges

   A fixed replacement once healing is complete, if the neighbouring teeth are suitable.

   Available on the NHSRestorative

4. Dental implants

   A fixed replacement anchored in the jawbone once healed, if the bone is suitable.

   Sometimes on the NHSRestorative

What you can do now

• Pick the tooth up by the crown (the white part), not the root
• If it is dirty, rinse it briefly in milk, saline or saliva - do not scrub it or use disinfectant
• Try to push it gently back into the socket and bite on a clean cloth to hold it in place
• If you cannot put it back, keep it in milk or in saliva (spit into a container) - do not let it dry out
• Never put a baby tooth back in
• For pain, avoid aspirin as it can increase bleeding - paracetamol is an alternative

Preventing it

• Wear a custom-made mouthguard for contact sports and activities with a risk of falls or impact
• Keep sports mouthguards clean, in a hard case, and replace them as a child's mouth grows

Products that may help at home

These support good daily care; they don’t replace treatment from a dentist. Some links may be affiliate links.