What to Do if a Tooth Gets Knocked Out

Dental emergencies in children can be alarming and stressful for parents. One of the most common dental emergencies is a knocked-out tooth. This can happen due to a variety of reasons, such as falls, sports injuries, or accidents. As a parent, it's important to know how to handle this situation and provide immediate care to your child.
 

Losing a tooth can be a traumatic experience for a child, both physically and emotionally. The pain, bleeding, and potential damage to the gum and surrounding teeth can be overwhelming. However, with the right knowledge and quick action, you can significantly increase the chances of saving the tooth and preventing further complications.
 

What to Do if Your Child's Tooth Gets Knocked Out

If your child's tooth gets knocked out, the first and most crucial step is to remain calm. Your child will be looking to you for guidance and support, so it's essential to project a sense of control and confidence.
 

Quickly scan the area and try to find the knocked-out tooth. It is important to handle the tooth by the crown (the top or visible part) and avoid touching the root. Gently rinse the tooth with clean water to remove any dirt or debris. Avoid scrubbing or scraping the tooth, as this can damage the delicate tissue on the root surface.
 

Place the tooth in a small container of saline (like contact lense solution). If saline is not available you can use milk, saliva or clean water. It is essential to keep the tooth moist to improve the chances of successful reimplantation.

Apply gentle pressure to the area with the missing tooth with clean gauze to stop any bleeding. Use a cold compress on the outside of the mouth to reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort.
 

Seeking Professional Dental Care for Your Child

Once you've taken the immediate steps to care for the knocked-out tooth, it's crucial to seek professional dental care as soon as possible. Your child's dentist will be able to assess the situation and determine the best course of action.
 

The dentist may be able to reimplant the tooth if it's been handled properly and the tooth is still viable.  For the best chance of successful reimplantation this should be done within one hour of the tooth being avulsed. In some cases, the dentist may recommend other treatment options depending on the extent of the damage and the child's age.
 

It's important to follow the dentist's instructions and attend all recommended follow-up appointments to ensure the best possible outcome for your child's dental health.
 

If your child has experienced a dental emergency and treating your child requires sedation, don't hesitate to contact our office. Our team of experienced dentists is dedicated to providing the highest quality of care and ensuring the best possible outcome for your child's dental health. Visit Hapy Bear Surgery Center located in Tulare, California, or call (559) 732-4279 for further guidance.