Tooth Avulsion (Knocked-out Tooth)

Trauma to the face and mouth from sports or other accidents can cause teeth to fracture, loosen or be knocked completely out of its socket (avulsion). An avulsed tooth can often be saved if it is replanted back into the socket immediately or soon after the injury.

Avulsion of upper left primary central incisors

Avulsion is one of the most serious dental injuries and the outcome for an avulsed permanent tooth is dependent on the actions taken at the place of accident.

If a tooth is avulsed, make sure it is a permanent tooth before replanting it. (You should not replant a baby tooth!)

1. Remain calm, act quickly and don't delay. Remember, time is critical.
2. Find the tooth and pick it up by the crown (the white part), avoid touching the root.
3. If the tooth is clean, place it back immediately into the socket.
   
   Replantation of lower left incisors after avulsion
4. If the tooth is dirty, rinse it briefly in cold running water (maximum 10 secs) before placing it back into the socket.
5. Do not scrape or rub the root surface.
6. Apply finger pressure to keep tooth in place.
7. Seek immediate dental treatment.

Note: If you are unable to replant the tooth, keep the tooth moist in a container of plain cold milk and see a dentist immediately. Do not store in water.

If milk is not available, place the tooth in your mouth between the cheeks and the gums.

The most critical factor is time. Teeth that have been replanted within 30 minutes have a better chance of surviving.