Reviewed by Dr. Kari Badwi
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An avulsed tooth is a permanent tooth that has been completely knocked out of its socket. This is a dental emergency that requires immediate action, ideally within 30 to 60 minutes. The sooner the tooth is repositioned or preserved properly, the higher the chance it can be saved.
Table of Contents
How to Handle an Avulsed Tooth
If a permanent tooth is knocked out, act quickly and follow these steps:
- Call your pediatric dentist right away for an emergency appointment
- Pick up the tooth by the crown, not the root
- If the tooth is clean, gently try to place it back into the socket
- If you cannot reinsert it, place the tooth in milk, saline solution, or saliva
- Keep the tooth moist at all times
- Apply a cold compress to the outside of the mouth to reduce swelling
If a baby tooth is knocked out, do not try to put it back in place. Contact your dentist so they can assess the area and ensure the developing permanent tooth is not affected.
What Not to Do
Handling the tooth incorrectly can reduce the chances of saving it. Avoid the following:
- Do not touch or handle the root
- Do not scrub, brush, or scrape the tooth
- Do not let the tooth dry out
- Do not wrap the tooth in paper towel or tissue
- Do not store the tooth in water
- Do not attempt to reinsert a baby tooth
Treatment for an Avulsed Tooth
Treatment depends on the type of tooth and how quickly care is provided.
For permanent teeth, your dentist may:
- Reinsert the tooth into the socket
- Stabilize it with a small splint
- Monitor healing over time
- Perform additional treatment if the pulp becomes damaged or infected
In some cases, a pulpectomy may be required to remove infected pulp tissue and preserve the remaining tooth structure. If the tooth cannot be saved, your dentist will discuss options to protect spacing and support proper development.
Emergency Dental Care for Children at BabyTooth
Our goal is to save a tooth whenever possible. Dr. Kari Badwi uses a calm, step-by-step approach to help children feel safe, even in urgent situations. She will assess the injury, check the surrounding tissues, and determine whether reimplantation or stabilization is appropriate.
Techniques such as Tell-Show-Do, positive reinforcement, and gentle communication help reduce anxiety during treatment. When needed, options like nitrous oxide or sedation are available to support a stress-free experience.
Emergency Dentist for a Knocked-Out Tooth in Calgary
For emergencies, call our office at (403) 873-1414. If you are a patient at BabyTooth and you call after hours, you will be directed to contact Dr. Kari or a trusted colleague. If you are unable to reach her, go to the Alberta Children’s Hospital Emergency Department, where a pediatric dentist is always on call.
To book an appointment at our pediatric dental office in SE Calgary, call (403) 873-1414 or visit us at 290 Midpark Way SE #200, Calgary, AB T2X 1P1.
FAQ
How can you keep a knocked-out tooth moist?
Place the tooth in milk or hold it in the mouth between the cheek and gums. Avoid water, as it can damage the cells needed for reattachment.
What is the best treatment for an avulsed tooth?
The best treatment is immediate reimplantation when possible, followed by stabilization and monitoring. Additional procedures may be needed depending on the condition of the tooth.
Can a knocked-out tooth be put back in?
Yes, a permanent tooth can sometimes be placed back into the socket if handled properly and treated quickly.
How long does it take for an avulsed tooth to heal?
Healing time varies, but the initial stabilization period typically lasts a few weeks, followed by ongoing monitoring to ensure the tooth remains healthy.
