You Can Replace a Knocked-Out Tooth Yourself
First aid guidelines often advise taking the tooth to the dentist in milk, or better yet, under the tongue to keep it covered in saliva. But inserting a tooth back into the socket is normal, and in fact, this is what dentists recommend.
Rinse the tooth first if it is dirty (but do it in just a few seconds and do not touch the root). If you can insert it back into the slot, bite down on something soft, such as a handkerchief, and head straight to the dentist. If you can’t get it back, keep the tooth in saliva – either under your tongue or spit into a carrier container.
The dentist will likely prescribe a course of antibiotics and recommend a root canal to fight infection. None of this is recommended for a baby tooth, however – ask your child to place it under the pillow and enjoy an early visit from the tooth fairy.
First aid for avulsion | Tooth Injury Handbook
Photo by Partha S. Sahan .
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