Emergency Issue: Can I Put a Knocked-Out Tooth Back?

Did you know that athletes and others who participate in close-contact activities are more likely to sustain an injury that dislodges a tooth? If you don’t wear a mouthguard, a single blow that lands with enough force can knock one of your pearly whites right out of the socket.

If you’re experiencing this kind of dental emergency, you might be feeling scared, hurt, or unsure what to do next. You might even wonder whether it’s safe to put the tooth back in its socket. Continue reading to learn more about what to do next to get the right help quickly!

What Should I Do If My Tooth Is Knocked Out?

Depending on your circumstances, there’s a chance that you’ve been injured or are bleeding, which can be intimidating. Try to take a few deep breaths to calm your heart rate, and rinse your mouth gently with water before placing a clean towel or gauze on the wound. Hold it there firmly for several minutes to slow any bleeding.

Then, try to find your dislodged tooth. If it’s whole and in good condition, there’s a chance your dentist might be able to save it. Pick it up by the crown (the tooth-shaped portion) so you don’t harm the still-viable cells on the roots. You can gently rinse it with water, then store it in a container with a small amount of milk or your saliva to preserve it. Finally, contact your emergency dentist for a same-day visit if you haven’t already.

Can I Put My Tooth Back In Its Socket?

Are you wondering whether it’s okay to put your knocked-out tooth back in its socket rather than store it in a container? This can sometimes be an even more effective way to protect it until you arrive for your dental visit, but it’s not always recommended. If your tooth isn’t broken and there are no jagged edges of enamel, then you might be able to reseat it safely.

To do so, carefully reposition it back in its spot and use your fingers to press it into the socket. Then, you can carefully bite down to hold it in place.

How Do Dentists Treat Knocked-Out Teeth?

When you arrive for your same-day emergency visit, your dentist will examine your mouth to determine the extent of the damage, which might include X-rays or other imaging so they can see beneath the surface of your gums. They’ll devise an appropriate treatment plan and walk you through the details for your approval. Then, they’ll likely administer a numbing agent and/or provide sedation, like nitrous oxide, to alleviate any discomfort.

Depending on your circumstances, they might reseat your tooth back in its socket so it can eventually reintegrate with your jawbone. Otherwise, they’ll likely suggest an appropriate replacement, like a dental bridge, dentures, or implants, to restore your smile’s appearance and functionality!

Meet the Author

Dr. Kevin Shively strives to help families in Lubbock improve their daily lives by helping them build and maintain happy, healthy teeth and gums. He earned his dental doctorate from the University of Louisville School of Dentistry and has since completed hundreds of hours of continuing education with prestigious institutions, like the Dawson Academy. Today, he offers a comprehensive menu of services to people of all ages, including same-day emergency visits, to meet all your needs under one roof. You can request an appointment on the website or call (806) 698-8660.