Having a tooth knocked out can be alarming, painful, and confusing—especially when it happens suddenly during sports, an accident, or a fall. With millions of adults and children experiencing this type of dental injury each year, many people wonder if they should try putting the tooth back into its socket themselves. The answer depends on several important factors, and knowing what to do in the moment can make a big difference.
Why a Knocked-Out Tooth Is a Dental Emergency
When a tooth is completely knocked out, it’s known as an avulsed tooth. This is considered one of the most serious dental emergencies because the tooth’s survival depends on how quickly and properly it’s handled. The root of the tooth is covered in delicate cells that help it reattach to the jawbone. Once those cells are damaged or dry out, the chances of saving the tooth decrease significantly.
Can You Put a Tooth Back in Yourself?
In some cases, it may be possible to gently place a knocked-out tooth back into its socket, but only under the right conditions. This typically applies to permanent adult teeth, not baby teeth. Baby teeth should never be reinserted, as doing so can damage the developing adult tooth underneath.
If the tooth is a permanent one, intact, and relatively clean, reinserting it immediately may help preserve the root cells until you can receive professional care. However, this should only be done if you feel confident and the situation allows.
How to Handle a Knocked-Out Tooth Safely
If you attempt to reinsert a tooth, it’s crucial to handle it correctly. The tooth should be picked up only by the crown, never the root. If it’s dirty, gently rinse it with clean water without scrubbing or removing any tissue. Avoid using soap, chemicals, or drying the tooth.
Once the tooth is gently placed back into the socket, biting down softly on clean gauze or cloth may help keep it in position temporarily. Even if reinsertion is successful, emergency dental care is still essential.
When You Should Not Try Reinserting the Tooth
There are situations where attempting to put the tooth back yourself is not recommended. If the tooth is broken, heavily contaminated, or if you’re unable to orient it correctly, it’s safer not to force it into place. Additionally, severe pain, heavy bleeding, or facial injuries should take priority, and professional medical or dental care should be sought immediately.
What to Do If You Can’t Reinsert the Tooth
If reinserting the tooth isn’t possible, keeping it moist is critical. Storing it in milk, a saline solution, or even inside your cheek can help preserve the root cells. Avoid storing the tooth in plain water, as this can damage the cells needed for reattachment.
Why Immediate Professional Care Matters
Time is one of the most important factors in saving a knocked-out tooth. Seeing a dental professional as soon as possible gives the best chance of successful reimplantation and long-term stability. Even if you manage to put the tooth back in yourself, proper evaluation and treatment are necessary to prevent infection or complications.
Knowing how to respond quickly and calmly can make all the difference in protecting your smile after a dental injury.
About the Practice
Achieve out of this world radiance at Nova Smile Dental! Not only do we protect your bright smile with routine preventative care, but Dr. Salari and the team are here for every accident and dental emergency that life throws at you. We provide comprehensive emergency dental care for patients experiencing traumatic tooth injuries, including knocked-out teeth. With a compassionate approach and advanced emergency care, the team helps patients feel well, confident, and restored.
Call us at (703) 763-0800 or request an appointment online.