Dislodged or Knocked Out Teeth
If you've had a tooth knocked out or dislodged, please contact Grey Lynn Dental immediately to organise an appointment.
A knocked out permanent adult tooth (also called an avulsed tooth) is a dental emergency. Baby teeth do not need to be put back in but quick steps in putting a permanent tooth back in its socket is the key to preserving the original tooth. Remember, that a tooth has the best chance of survival if replaced within 30 minutes.
What to do if a tooth is knocked out
- Find the knocked out permanent tooth. If you are not sure whether it is a baby tooth or permanent tooth the difference is that a baby tooth is generally smaller, smoother and whiter.
- Handle the tooth by its crown (top part) never by the root.
- Gently rinse (not scrub) with saline solution or milk. DO NOT use TAP WATER as it contains chlorine which may damage the root.
- Keep the tooth from drying by placing it back in the socket of the child's mouth and getting them to hold it in place or storing the tooth in milk
- See a dentist or emergency room straight away
- During contact sports a mouthguard is strongly recommended to help reduce trauma to teeth.