While your child was playing outside, they had an accident and knocked out one of their teeth. Though this situation can be kind of scary, there are several steps you can take to handle the situation until they’re able to get the help they need. If your child knocked out a tooth, call your little one’s dentist right away, then follow these steps.
What If They Knock Out a Baby Tooth?
Since baby teeth have shorter roots than permanent teeth, they tend to come out easier when your child gets injured. Because there’s a permanent tooth underneath, replacing the baby tooth can damage it. For that reason, your dentist is unlikely to do this. Even so, if the baby tooth wasn’t close to falling out, your child’s remaining teeth will begin to shift into fill in the empty space. This will cause the permanent tooth to be trapped underneath. They may place a space saver to keep this from happening.
Even though the tooth will likely not need to be replaced, there are still additional steps for you to take. If your child’s mouth is bleeding or there’s swelling where the tooth used to be, have them bite down on a clean, fresh washcloth soaked in cold water to compress the area. This will also reduce swelling and help stop the bleeding. After they’ve done that, reach out to their dentist for further instructions and to make an appointment if need be.
What If They Knock Out a Permanent Tooth?
If your little one knocks out a permanent tooth, this situation is generally more serious. If this happens, follow these steps:
- Step 1: Call their dentist – Call your child’s dentist as soon as possible. They will need to be treated within 60 minutes to have a good chance of saving the tooth.
- Step 2: Find the tooth – Look for the tooth. If you find it, pick it up by chewing surface, also called the crown, and avoid touching the root to prevent additional damage to the tooth.
- Step 3: Rinse off the tooth – Rinse the tooth off with water and nothing else.
- Step 4: Put the tooth back – Help your child put the tooth back into its socket. Then, have them gently bite down so it will stay in place. If you aren’t able to put it back, have them place the tooth between their cheek and gums, or keep it in a clean, sealed container full of milk or saliva.
So, if your little one loses a tooth, don’t panic. With the above steps, you’ll be able to get the situation under control until their dentist can repair their smile.
About the Author
For over three decades, Dr. Karen Littlefield Neil and her Fort Worth team of oral health professionals have been providing patients of all ages with the effective, compassionate, and trustworthy care they deserve. If your little one lost a tooth and needs to visit an emergency dentist, they can offer support and prompt treatment to get their smile back on track. For more information on what to do if your child knocks out one of their teeth or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Neil and her talented team, visit their website or call their office at (817) 738-3368.