Knocked-Out Tooth? Step-by-Step Guide to Save Your Smile
If you’ve just had a permanent tooth knocked out, time isn’t on your side—but don’t panic. Knowing exactly what to do can mean the difference between saving your natural tooth and needing a replacement.
At Edmonton Smiles, we understand that dental emergencies happen fast—and they can be scary. That’s why we’ve put together this quick, no-nonsense guide to help you handle a knocked-out tooth safely and confidently.
Whether you’re treating yourself or a loved one, this step-by-step guide can help preserve your smile.
What to Do Immediately After a Tooth Gets Knocked Out
Losing a tooth might feel overwhelming, but here’s the truth: the first 30 minutes are crucial. If you act quickly and handle the tooth properly, there’s a real chance your dentist can reattach it successfully.
Step 1: Find the Tooth
- Stay calm and locate the tooth as quickly as possible.
- Pick the tooth up by the crown (the white, visible part)—never touch the root.
Why? Touching the root can damage the tiny ligaments your dentist needs to help the tooth reattach.
Step 2: Rinse (But Don’t Scrub)
- Gently rinse the tooth with saline solution, milk, or clean water if it’s dirty.
- Do not scrub, dry, or wrap the tooth in tissue or cloth.
Keep in mind: Preserving those delicate root fibers is key.
Step 3: Try to Put the Tooth Back In Its Socket
- If you’re comfortable, gently place the tooth back in its socket.
- Bite down softly on a piece of gauze or cloth to keep it in place.
If this isn’t possible…
Step 4: Keep the Tooth Moist
- Put the tooth in a container filled with:
- Milk (best option)
- Saliva (second-best)
- Saline solution or water (last resort)
- Do not leave the tooth to dry out—it must stay moist.
Step 5: Contact an Emergency Dentist Immediately
Time is everything. The quicker you get to a qualified dentist, the better your odds of saving the tooth.
At Edmonton Smiles, we offer emergency dental services for knocked-out teeth. Give us a call and let our team walk you through next steps, even before you arrive.
Can a Knocked-Out Tooth Be Saved?
Yes—but only if you act fast.
A healthy adult tooth that has been knocked out (also called an avulsed tooth) can be reimplanted into the socket if treated within 30 to 60 minutes. After that, the chances of successful reattachment drop dramatically.
Here’s what influences whether or not your tooth can be saved:
| Factor | Positive Outcome? |
|---|---|
| Time since injury | Sooner = better |
| How the tooth was handled | Only touched crown, stayed moist |
| Age and health of patient | Better if healthy adult |
| Type of injury | Simple avulsion vs. broken root |
Your best bet? Get to a dentist immediately.
What Not to Do With a Knocked-Out Tooth
Mistakes in those first few minutes can lower the chance of saving your tooth.
Avoid these common slip-ups:
- Don’t touch the root.
- Don’t scrub or disinfect the tooth.
- Don’t let it dry out.
- Don’t wait to see a dentist.
Many people think rinsing with alcohol or hydrogen peroxide helps—please don’t. It can kill the nerve cells needed for reattachment.
What Happens at the Dental Office?
At Edmonton Smiles, we act fast while keeping you calm.
Here’s what to expect during your emergency visit:
1. Examination & X-Rays
We’ll assess the socket and surrounding tissues, check for other injuries, and take an X-ray to determine next steps.
2. Tooth Reimplantation
If the tooth is in good condition and wasn’t out too long, we’ll attempt to reinsert it into the socket.
3. Stabilization
We use a thin wire or flexible splint to hold the tooth in place for 1 to 2 weeks so your gums and bone can begin the healing process.
4. Follow-Up Plan
We’ll book a follow-up to monitor healing. In some cases, a root canal may be recommended within a week or so after reimplantation.
Tooth Knocked Out but Can’t Be Saved? Here Are Your Options
Sometimes the damage is too extensive, or the tooth wasn’t found in time. If your natural tooth can’t be reimplanted, don’t worry—there are still excellent options available.
Tooth Replacement Options
If you’re looking for tooth replacement options, you have several to choose from:
| Option | Description | Pros | Considerations
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Dental Implant | Titanium post inserted into jawbone, topped with a crown | Long-lasting, natural-looking | Requires bone health and healing period |
| Dental Bridge | An artificial tooth anchored to adjacent teeth | Functional and cosmetic fix | May affect the surrounding healthy teeth |
| Partial Denture | Removable replacement | Affordable, non-invasive | Less permanent, may feel bulky |
We’ll help you choose based on your age, lifestyle, and budget.
Preventing Tooth Loss in the Future
No one expects to lose a tooth, but certain steps can help you avoid it:
Protective Gear for Sports
Always wear a custom-fitted mouthguard when playing contact sports like hockey, football, or martial arts.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Weakened teeth are more likely to break or dislodge, especially from underlying issues like gum disease.
Avoid Hard Chewing
Don’t use your teeth to open packages, and avoid chewing ice, hard candy, or popcorn kernels.
Schedule Regular Checkups
Routine visits at Edmonton Smiles help keep your teeth strong and identify risks before they become major problems.
FAQs About Knocked-Out Teeth
What if my child knocks out a baby tooth?
Do not attempt to reinsert it. Contact your dentist immediately and save the tooth for evaluation. Baby teeth usually aren’t reimplanted.
How long can a tooth survive out of the mouth?
Ideally less than 30 minutes. Up to an hour is possible if the tooth is kept moist and handled correctly.
Will I need a root canal after reimplantation?
In most cases, yes—especially for adult teeth. The root canal is usually done 7-10 days later to prevent infection.
How much does emergency dental treatment cost?
At Edmonton Smiles, we follow the Alberta Dental Association’s 2024 Fee Guide, so you’ll know upfront what to expect. Costs can vary depending on injury complexity—but we’re happy to explain and work with your insurance.
Call Edmonton Smiles When Dental Emergencies Strike
A knocked-out tooth is one of the most urgent dental emergencies—but it doesn’t have to mean you’ve lost your smile forever.
With fast action, the right handling, and compassionate care from professionals you trust, you can often save the tooth—or replace it with a natural-looking alternative.
At Edmonton Smiles, we’re here when you need us most. If you or a family member experiences dental trauma, call us right away. We’ll guide you step-by-step—just like this article—but with a personal touch and timely treatment.
Want to be prepared before emergencies happen? Bookmark this guide, share it with your loved ones, and schedule your next visit to keep your smile going strong.
Let’s protect that confident smile—together.