What To Do If You Knock Out a Tooth

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Whether it happened during sports, a fall, or an accident, having a tooth knocked out is scary — but you may be able to save it if you act fast. Timing is everything.

Here’s exactly what to do (and not do) when a permanent tooth gets knocked out.

Is a Knocked-Out Tooth a Dental Emergency?

Yes. A knocked-out tooth (also called an avulsed tooth) is a true dental emergency. The first 30–60 minutes after the injury are critical.

If treated quickly, a dentist may be able to reinsert and save the natural tooth, especially in children and younger adults.

Call our emergency dentist in Draper now.

How to Save the Tooth: Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Pick Up the Tooth by the Crown

Never touch the root. Handle it only by the top (white, chewing surface).

  1. Rinse It Gently

If there’s dirt or debris, rinse it with milk or clean water for just a few seconds. Do not scrub or use soap.

  1. Try to Reinsert It

If possible, gently place the tooth back into its socket and hold it in place by biting down on gauze or a clean cloth.

  1. Keep It Moist

If reinsertion isn’t possible, place the tooth in a cup of milk, saliva, or use a tooth preservation kit (like Save-A-Tooth). Water is not ideal but better than letting it dry out.

  1. Get to a Dentist ASAP

The sooner you’re seen, the higher the chances of saving the tooth. Ideally within 30 minutes, and no later than 1 hour.

Call us right away to be seen same-day.

What Not to Do

  • Don’t touch the root
  • Don’t let the tooth dry out
  • Don’t use alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or toothpaste to clean it ● Don’t wait — delays reduce the chances of success

What Happens at the Emergency Dental Visit

If you bring the tooth with you, your emergency dentist will: 1. Take a quick x-ray

  1. Evaluate if the socket is intact
  2. Reinsert the tooth or plan for replacement 4. Stabilize it with a splint for healing
  3. Prescribe antibiotics if needed

In some cases, a root canal may be scheduled later to preserve the tooth.

Will Insurance Cover It?

Most dental plans cover emergency visits and traumatic injuries. If the tooth can’t be saved, your dentist may discuss options like a dental implant or bridge, which may have different insurance coverage.

How to Prevent Tooth Loss in the Future

  • Wear a mouth guard during sports
  • Avoid chewing hard foods or ice
  • Keep up with regular dental visits
  • Address grinding (bruxism) with a nightguard

When to Call an Emergency Dentist

If you knock out a tooth, lose a filling, chip a tooth, or experience severe pain or swelling — call an emergency dentist immediately.

At The Crown Dental Arts, we offer same-day emergency care in Draper and surrounding areas.

Don’t Wait — Time Is Critical

Call now or request an emergency visit with our dentist.