- Don’t Panic. If you follow these instructions generally there is no long-term harm done.
- Is it a First Tooth? (child 0-5 years). If yes and the tooth is out of position but still in the mouth, see a dentist as soon as possible. If yes and and the tooth is completely knocked out DON’T attempt to put the tooth back.
- Is it a Second Tooth? If yes and the tooth is out of position see a dentist as soon as possible. If yes and the tooth is completely knocked out do the following:
- If the tooth is clean put it straight back into the hole it came out of. Avoid touching the root. If done quickly it will go back in easily. Make sure it is around the right way. Have the patient hold the tooth in place with their finger or by biting gently on a handkerchief. Get to a dentist as soon as possible.
- If the tooth is dirty in order of preference: (1) rinse in milk or (2) rinse in cold running water for 1-2 seconds or (3) have the patient suck the tooth clean. DO NOT touch the root or try to clean the root any other way. Put the tooth back in. Hold in place as above.
- If you can’t put the tooth back in then it must be kept moist while you get to a dentist. Cover the tooth with milk or wrap in “glad wrap”. If neither is available the tooth can be kept moist in the patient’s mouth (in the pouch of the cheek). If none of this is possible use water.
Ring the telephone numbers at the top of the page or get to a dentist as soon as possible.
(Note for Doctors: Start antibiotics immediately. Adults 2gm Amoxycillin stat, 500mg qld for 7 days. Proportion for children. Use Erthromycin if allergic. If the tooth has contacted soil administer Tetanus Toxoid. Refer to a dentist for splinting ASAP)
