Can A Tooth Be Put Back In After Being Knocked Out?

Dental trauma can be a frightening experience. Among the many types of dental trauma, a knocked out tooth is pretty severe. If your tooth has been avulsed (knocked completely out of the socket) you may be wondering if it can be put back in place. Here’s what you need to know to ensure the best possible outcome. 

What To Do For a Knocked Out Tooth

If a permanent tooth is knocked completely out of the mouth, the first thing to do is handle it carefully. Holding the tooth by the crown only, avoiding contact with the roots, rinse the tooth off in a cup of water or in the sink after plugging the drain. If you can, place the tooth back in the socket and bite down on some clean gauze. If you are not able to get the tooth back in the socket, place it in a cup of milk. You may still need to bite down on some gauze to control bleeding. 

As soon as possible, call Forest Lake Endodontics at 651-464-9888. During regular office hours we will make time to see you as soon as possible. After hours please follow the voicemail prompts to leave a message and someone will contact you with further instructions. 

How Long Can a Tooth Live Out of the Mouth? 

A tooth can live outside of the mouth for up to an hour when placed in milk. The tooth has the best chance of survival if it is out of the socket for no more than 30 minutes. This is why prompt treatment is crucial. 

How is a Knocked Out Tooth Treated?

Once the tooth is placed back in the socket it will need to be splinted to the other teeth in order to stabilize it while the tissues around it heal. Over time the support structures will tighten down on the tooth so that it is fully secure. Some sutures may be required if there was significant damage to the gum tissue. 

Can A Baby Tooth Be Put Back in the Socket?

A baby tooth should not be put back in the socket if it is knocked out. This is because it could cause damage to the permanent tooth underneath it. Only permanent teeth should be replaced after being avulsed. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Trauma 

Should you go to the ER for a knocked out tooth?

In most cases a knocked out tooth is best treated by a dentist or endodontist. However, if the situation becomes serious, such as loss of consciousness, call 911 or proceed to the nearest emergency room. 

How long does it take for a knocked out tooth to heal?

It can take up to 4-6 weeks for a knocked out tooth to be fully supported in the socket again. The tissues take time to heal and the support structures need time to tighten back down on the tooth. You’ll need to be careful to eat a soft diet and avoid chewing in the area of the healing tooth. 

Why See an Endodontist For Knocked Out Tooth? 

Endodontists specialize in restoring the health of teeth. When a tooth is knocked out there is often damage to the roots or the root canal, which affects the dental pulp, the soft tissue inside the tooth. Forest Lake Endodontics has the necessary expertise that offers the best chance of saving your tooth. 

In case of a knocked out tooth or other dental trauma, call 651-464-9888 as soon as possible, both during or after office hours.