Help! My Child Knocked Out a Tooth – What Should I Do?

A knocked-out tooth can be scary for both you and your child. Whether it’s the result of a fall, sports injury, or accident at home, acting quickly can make a big difference. The first step is to stay calm and call your child’s dentist immediately.

An emergency dentist for children can assess the situation and provide the right treatment to protect your child’s smile. In the meantime, here’s what you should know about handling the situation.

If It’s a Baby Tooth

If your child knocks out a baby tooth, it usually won’t be reinserted. This is because putting it back could damage the developing permanent tooth underneath. However, that doesn’t mean you should wait to see a dentist. A prompt visit will ensure there’s no injury to the surrounding teeth, gums, or jaw, and your child’s dentist can determine whether space maintenance is needed to keep other teeth from shifting.

If It’s a Permanent Tooth

If the tooth is permanent, time is critical. Ideally, it should be reinserted into the socket within 30 minutes to have the best chance of saving it. Here’s how to handle it:

• Pick it up by the crown (the chewing surface), not the root.
• Rinse it gently with water if it’s dirty—avoid scrubbing.
• Try to place it back in the socket if your child is old enough and can hold it there.
• If reinsertion isn’t possible, store it in milk or a tooth preservation solution until you reach the dentist.

How to Keep Your Child Comfortable

While waiting to see the dentist, you can help ease your child’s discomfort by applying a cold compress to the outside of their mouth to reduce swelling. Over-the-counter pain medication appropriate for their age can also help. Avoid giving them anything too hot, cold, or hard to eat until the dentist has evaluated the injury.

Why an Emergency Dentist for Children Is Important

Pediatric dentists are trained to handle dental emergencies with a gentle approach, helping children stay calm while receiving urgent care. They also understand the importance of preserving your child’s oral development, whether that means protecting a permanent tooth or ensuring a lost baby tooth doesn’t cause long-term spacing issues.

Quick action and professional care are the best ways to protect your child’s smile after a tooth is knocked out.

About the Practice

Arlington Heights Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry offers compassionate, expert care for children facing dental emergencies. Our experienced team is skilled in handling knocked-out teeth, tooth injuries, and other urgent issues, ensuring young patients get the prompt attention they need in a friendly, supportive environment.

Call us at (847) 440-3346 or request an appointment online.