Tooth Knocked Out or Broken

Teeth can be cracked or knocked out as a result of sports injuries, falls, vehicle collisions, or other accidents. With quick action, sometimes permanent teeth that have been knocked out can be reimplanted.

First Aid Knocked-out tooth

If a tooth has been knocked out:

• Don't touch the roots of the tooth; hold it at the top.

• Rinse the tooth gently in a bowl of water. Don't use running water, and don't scrape or rub the tooth to clean it.

• See if you can gently replace the tooth in the socket. If you can, bite down gently on a damp cloth to help keep it in place.

• If you can't replace the tooth, put it in a solution of 1Ú4 teaspoon salt and 1 quart warm water, in warm milk, or in your own saliva and get medical attention right away.

• Contact your dentist immediately.

Broken Tooth

For a broken tooth, do the following:

• Rinse your mouth with warm water.

• Use cold compresses to help keep swelling down.

• Contact your dentist immediately.