What to Do Immediately for a Knocked-Out Tooth

Most people’s first reaction when they knock out a tooth is to put it in some water. That’s the absolute worst thing you could do. Here is what your dentist in Jacksonville, FL, recommends.

What to Do Immediately If You Knock Out a Tooth

Never, ever, ever put a knocked-out tooth in water. Doing so could cause the tooth’s root to burst. You need to get help immediately! And we mean immediately! If you want to save and re-implant the tooth.

But until you can get there, here is what you should do.

• Handling the Tooth

Never handle the tooth by the root. Only handle the tooth by the crown (top part) of the tooth.

• Place the Tooth Back in the Socket (if possible)

Rinse it with milk or saliva first if needed. Then, if you can, place the tooth back into its socket. Don’t force it. You can hold it in place by gently closing your mouth. If you can’t put it back in the socket, put it in some milk.

• Put the Tooth in Some Milk (not water)

Put the tooth in milk. Milk has enzymes that help protect the periodontal ligaments. Make sure the tooth is completely submerged in the milk. Then get to the emergency dentist immediately!

If you do all this within five to 60 minutes or so, chances are your tooth will survive if it has been stored properly. After that, the chances decrease significantly.

Now, you will need some restorative dentistry in Jacksonville, FL.

This applies to adult teeth, not baby teeth, so you can wait for your child’s adult tooth to come in.

Do You Need a Dentist in Jacksonville, FL?

If you knock out a tooth, you will need some dental work to get your mouth back to normal. Contact Dr. Matt Henry today. Our number one goal will be to help you get your smile back. We have a comfortable and inviting office with a team of professionals who love making people smile.