Accidents happen, especially with active kids. Whether it’s a tumble at the playground or a bump during sports, a knocked-out tooth can be alarming for both child and parent. Knowing what to do in the first few minutes can make all the difference, especially if it’s a permanent tooth. Today, we at Smile Reef would like to offer a step-by-step guide to help you stay calm and act quickly if your child loses a tooth.
1) Stay Calm and Reassure Your Child
First and foremost, stay calm. Your child will likely be frightened and in pain, and your response can help ease their fear. Speak gently, check for other injuries, and try to keep them still.
2) Determine If the Tooth Is a Baby Tooth or Permanent
This is a critical distinction. Baby teeth are not re-implanted, while permanent teeth can sometimes be saved if action is taken quickly, ideally within 30 minutes.
Baby tooth: Do not attempt to reinsert it. Doing so could damage the developing permanent tooth underneath.
Permanent tooth: Proceed with re-implantation steps if possible.
3) Handle the Tooth with Care
If the tooth is permanent, locate it quickly. Hold it by the crown (the white part), not the root. Touching the root can damage delicate cells that are essential for successful reattachment.
If the tooth is dirty, rinse it gently with milk or saline, not water and not soap. Never scrub the tooth or wrap it in tissue.
4) Try to Reinsert the Tooth (If It’s a Permanent Tooth)
If your child is calm and cooperative, and the tooth is a good fit, gently try to place the tooth back into the socket. Have your child bite down softly on a clean piece of gauze or cloth to hold it in place. If reinserting the tooth isn’t possible, place it in a tooth preservation solution, cold milk, or your child’s saliva. Avoid using plain water, which can damage the root cells.
5) Seek Emergency Dental Care Immediately
Time is crucial. Call your pediatric dentist or visit an emergency dental clinic right away. Let them know you’re coming and provide as much detail as possible. The sooner the tooth is treated, the better the chances of saving it. If your child has other injuries (such as a blow to the head or facial trauma), go to the nearest emergency room first and let the medical team coordinate dental care from there.
6) Follow Up with Your Pediatric Dentist
Even if it’s a baby tooth or the permanent tooth couldn’t be saved, follow up with your pediatric dentist. They will assess any damage to the surrounding teeth, gums, or jaw, and recommend next steps such as space maintainers or restorative options.
Pediatric Dentistry
A knocked-out tooth is scary, but acting quickly and staying calm can protect your child’s oral health in the long run. Save your pediatric dentist’s contact info in your phone and consider creating a small dental emergency kit for home and travel. A little preparation goes a long way when protecting your child’s smile. To schedule your children’s next dental appointment in the Las Vegas, NV Valley, call Smile Reef.