What to Do If Your Child Chips or Knocks Out a Tooth
Dental injuries need fast, calm decisions.
The right next step depends on whether the injured tooth is a baby tooth or a permanent tooth. Call the office promptly for guidance.
If a tooth is chipped or broken
Rinse gently with warm water if your child can rinse safely, use a cold compress for swelling, and save any tooth fragments.
- Call the office for guidance
- Bring any broken pieces to the visit
- Avoid chewing on the injured tooth
If a baby tooth is knocked out
Do not try to put a baby tooth back into the socket. Replanting a baby tooth can damage the developing permanent tooth underneath.
- Apply gentle pressure with gauze if there is bleeding
- Use a cold compress for swelling
- Call the office so Dr. Tiana can evaluate the injury
If a permanent tooth is knocked out
A knocked-out permanent tooth is time-sensitive. Keep the tooth moist and get dental help right away.
- Hold the tooth by the crown, not the root
- If dirty, rinse briefly with water without scrubbing
- Place it in milk or a tooth-preservation product if it cannot be put back in the socket