Losing a tooth is not as fun when you’re an adult. Whether from sports, falls, or accidents, if an adult tooth falls out, it is considered a dental emergency, and acting quickly is of the utmost importance.

Knowing what to do if you lose a tooth gives you the best chance of preserving the tooth and restoring your smile.

Why Acting Fast Matters

When a tooth is knocked out, there is a very short window of viability during which it can still be reconnected. Your tooth has a periodontal ligament on the root that connects it to your gums and jaw. When exposed, it starts to die quickly, and once it does, the tooth cannot be reattached.

Step-By-Step Guide on How to Handle a Knocked-Out Tooth

1. Stay Calm & Find the Tooth

If your tooth got knocked out, locate it quickly and pick it up by the top part, not the root.

2. Rinse Gently if Dirty

If the tooth is dirty, rinse it gently in milk or saline. Avoid scrubbing, scraping, or using soap, as this can damage vital cells.

3. Try to Reinsert the Tooth

If possible, place the tooth back into its socket. Bite down softly on gauze to help keep it in place.

4. Keep It Moist if You Can’t Reinsert

If reinsertion isn’t possible, store it in milk, saline, or inside your cheek. Never let it dry out.

5. Get Emergency Dental Care Immediately

If your tooth falls out, call your dentist to set up an appointment  right away.

What NOT to Do

When a tooth gets knocked out, making the wrong move can lower the chances of saving it. Here’s what you should avoid:

  • Don’t touch or scrub the root.
  • Don’t store it in tap water for long periods.
  • Don’t delay getting to the dentist.

Can Baby Teeth Be Replanted?

When a child loses a tooth, it cannot be replanted. Baby teeth are meant to fall out and make way for adult teeth to grow in. However, they come out when they are ready. Trying to place a baby tooth back into the socket can interfere with the development of the permanent tooth underneath and may even cause long-term damage. 

If a baby tooth falls out prematurely, contact your dentist to ensure there are no injuries to your child’s gums or other teeth.

How to Prevent Knocked-Out Teeth

While not every accident can be avoided, here are some tips for lowering the risk of having a tooth knocked out:

  • Wear a properly fitted mouthguard when playing sports to absorb impact and reduce the risk of teeth being knocked out.
  • Use helmets or face shields during high-risk activities, like cycling, hockey, or football.
  • Avoid chewing ice or other hard items that can cause cracks or weaken enamel.
  • Attend regular dental check-ups to ensure teeth are healthy and stable. Dentists can identify loose teeth, gum disease, or other underlying issues that may increase the risk of tooth loss in the event of an accident.
  • Brushing and flossing daily helps keep gums healthy and keep teeth firmly in place.
  • Teach children safe habits to protect their teeth and ensure they use protective gear to prevent dental injuries.

What To Expect At The Dentist

What happens at the dentist after you lose a tooth?

Your dentist will move quickly to assess the situation and determine the best course of treatment. They may attempt to reinsert the tooth and stabilize it with a splint to help it heal in place. In some cases, additional care, such as a root canal, may be recommended to protect the tooth’s long-term health. If your tooth is just chipped, it may be able to be fixed with cosmetic tooth bonding. Your dentist will also continue to monitor healing over time, checking for any complications and ensuring the tooth and surrounding tissues are recovering properly. If your tooth cannot be reattached, you might need a dental implant to fill the gap in your teeth.

Restore Your Smile With Premiere Cosmetic & Family Dentistry

Having a tooth fall out can feel overwhelming, but knowing what to do in those first few minutes can make all the difference. Acting quickly gives you the best chance of reattaching the tooth, but protecting your teeth and preventing a knocked-out tooth is also important. 

If you experience an accident or injury that results in a tooth getting knocked loose, contacting your dentist should be your first step. Having a trusted dentist you can call to restore your tooth or help you find an alternate solution if it can’t be reattached is imperative to restoring your smile.