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If a permanent tooth was knocked out:

  1. 1Find the tooth — pick up by the WHITE part only (never the root)
  2. 2If dirty, rinse gently with MILK (not water)
  3. 3Try to push it back into the socket — have child bite on cloth to hold
  4. 4Cannot reimplant? Put tooth in cold MILK and rush to dentist
  5. !You have 30-60 minutes — do NOT let the tooth dry out

Assess the dental injury

Answer these questions so we can guide you.

When to Seek Immediate Care

Call 911 or go to the ER if you see any of these signs

  • Knocked-out permanent tooth (every minute counts)
  • Cannot close mouth or jaw looks misaligned
  • Heavy bleeding that will not stop
  • Tooth pushed up into the gum
  • Severe facial swelling
  • Signs of jaw fracture (pain, swelling, unable to open/close mouth)

Can Usually Wait for Regular Dentist

These are typically not emergencies

  • Small chip with no pain or sharp edge
  • Baby tooth knocked loose (not a permanent tooth)
  • Minor gum bleeding that stops within 10 minutes
  • Bumped tooth but no visible damage or looseness
  • Tooth slightly sensitive after a bump

Frequently Asked Questions

My child knocked out a baby tooth - should I put it back in?

No. Never try to reimplant a baby tooth. It can damage the permanent tooth developing underneath. The permanent tooth will still come in on schedule. See your dentist within 1-2 days to check for other damage.

Why milk and not water for a knocked-out tooth?

Milk has the right pH and nutrients to keep the tooth root cells alive. Water actually damages the cells because of osmotic differences. Cold milk is best. Saliva (have the child spit into a cup and place tooth in it) is the second-best option.

How do I know if it is a baby tooth or permanent tooth?

Generally, children start losing baby teeth around age 6 and have all permanent teeth by age 12-13. Front teeth are usually replaced first. If your child is between 6-12, it could be either - treat it as a permanent tooth if unsure.

The tooth turned grey after a bump - is that bad?

A grey tooth after an injury can mean the blood supply inside was damaged. This is more common with baby teeth. It may or may not need treatment. See your dentist, but it is not an emergency unless there is pain, swelling, or a pimple on the gum above it.

How long do I have to save a knocked-out permanent tooth?

You have 30-60 minutes for the best chance of saving the tooth. The sooner you reimplant or get to a dentist, the better. Never let the tooth dry out - keep it in milk or saliva.

This guide is for quick reference and does not replace professional medical advice. When in doubt, call your pediatrician or go to the ER.