What to do if tooth falls out

A completely displaced adult tooth is an avulsed tooth, and the periodontal ligament cells on its root may be injured outside the mouth. A baby tooth should not be pushed back into its socket because it can affect the developing adult tooth.

Find the tooth, lift it by the white crown, and gently rinse visible dirt without rubbing the root; if it can be placed back without force, keep it seated and bite softly on clean gauze. Otherwise place it in milk or inside the cheek only if the person is alert and old enough not to swallow it, then bring it to the dental team.

Treat an adult tooth knocked out as urgent, especially after a blow to the face, and seek care immediately. Go to emergency medical care for heavy bleeding, loss of consciousness, vomiting, breathing difficulty, or a suspected jaw injury.

Ask whether the tooth can be replanted, whether the socket or neighboring teeth are fractured, and whether a flexible splint is needed. Ask how the tooth will be monitored for pulp or root complications and what replacement options apply if it cannot be saved.