Accidental tooth loss by injury

Knowing the Proper First Aid

• If the tooth is loose, even extremely so, but is still attached in any way, leave it in place; do not remove it.

• If it is out of its socket completely and unattached, but still in the victim's mouth, it is best to have the person hold it there, if possible, until a dentist can attempt re-implantation.

• If it is out of the mouth, do not let it dry out. Handle it as little as possible. 

• Do not attempt to disinfect the tooth, or scrub it, or remove any tissue attached to it.

• If it is recovered from the ground or other soiled area, rinse it off in lukewarm water. Preserve it in milk until a dentist is available. If milk is not available, lukewarm water will suffice. 

• Time out of the socket is critical in the long-term success of re-implantation. After 30 minutes, the success potential begins to decline. However, re-implantation is still possible after several hours, so the attempt can still be made even if the tooth has been out for a long period.