What to do if a permanent (adult) tooth is knocked out
Stay calm and act quickly.
If the tooth is dirty, gently rinse it under milk without touching the root and follow the steps below. Do not scrub.
- If the person is conscious, hold the clean tooth by the crown (smooth, white part) and replace it into its socket using light pressure.
- Hold the tooth in place by getting the person to gently bite on a handkerchief.
- Seek immediate advice or treatment from an oral health professional (see Emergency dental care).
If you can't replace the tooth:
- Do not let it become dry and do not use tap water.
- Place the tooth in milk or saliva (preferably the patient's).
- Seal it in plastic wrap.
- Seek immediate advice or treatment from an oral health professional (see Emergency dental care).
What to do if a primary (baby) tooth is knocked out
Do not try to put it back. Contact an oral health professional. To find a community dental clinic near you, go to Community dental clinics.
What to do if you have broken or fractured a tooth
Cracked or fractured teeth may or may not be painful. In any case, see an oral health professional as early recognition can improve its survival.
- If the tooth fragment is broken and is intact, store it in milk or saliva (preferably the patient's).
- Seal it in plastic wrap.
- See an oral health professional as soon as possible.
Visit our Emergency dental care page.