First Aid For
Knocked Out Teeth

When you have a permanent tooth knocked out it is a bit like a game of beat the clock. Knocked out teeth have a better chance of being re-implanted if you can get to a dentist in 30 minutes. Here's how to do it.

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First Aid Treatment

• Save any tooth that has been knocked out for possible re-implantation. Usually baby teeth are not re-implanted only permanent teeth. But if you can find it bring the knocked out tooth with you.
• If you can put the tooth back in the socket. Bite down gently on gauze or a wet tea bag to help hold it in place
• Handle the tooth only by the crown (the chewing end) not the root
• If you cannot replace the tooth put it in a small container of milk or saliva. The tooth can be carried under the tongue or in the lower gum. Take care not to swallow the tooth
• Apply a cold compress to the mouth to help with pain and swelling
• Apply gauze and pressure to stop bleeding
• Get dental help immediately. The sooner you can get to a dentist the better chance you have of getting the tooth re-implanted
• DO NOT scrape the root of the tooth to remove dirt or debris
• DO NOT rinse the tooth in peroxide or rubbing alcohol