What to Do If Your Child Knocks Out a Tooth

What to Do If Your Child Knocks Out a Tooth

DENTAL EMERGENCIES

Drs. Greg & Phil Wolkstein
Licensed Pediatric Dentists

June 2026 • 2 min read

It happens in a flash — a fall off playground equipment, a collision during soccer, or a tumble down the porch steps.
One moment everything is fine; the next, your child is crying and holding a tooth in their hand.

Don’t panic. The next 30 minutes matter more than you think — and knowing what to do could save the tooth entirely.

"A knocked-out permanent tooth is a dental emergency. Speed matters — teeth replanted within 30 minutes have the best chance of survival."

First: Is It a Baby Tooth or a Permanent Tooth?

This is the most important question. Baby teeth should never be replanted. For a baby tooth, keep your child calm, control bleeding, and call us.

For a permanent tooth, every minute counts. Follow the steps below immediately.

Step-by-Step: Knocked-Out Permanent Tooth

1. Find the tooth and pick it up by the crown
   Never touch the root — it contains cells needed for reattachment.
2. Rinse gently — do not scrub
   Use cold milk, saline, or plain water. Avoid soap or alcohol.
3. Keep the tooth moist
   Ideally replant it, or store it in milk or between cheek and gum.
4. Call us and act fast
   Teeth replanted within 30 minutes have the highest success rate.

Prevention Is Still the Best Plan

A custom-fitted mouthguard is the best way to prevent dental injuries during sports. Ask us about mouthguards at your child’s next visit.