A Permanent Tooth Was Knocked Out. What Should I Do?

A permanent tooth was knocked out. What should I do right now?

Pick the tooth up by the crown, not the root. If possible, place it gently back in the socket. If not, keep it in milk or saliva and call immediately. Do not scrub the root.

Can this wait?

Do not wait on a knocked-out permanent tooth. Baby teeth should not be replanted. Major facial trauma, uncontrolled bleeding, or a medical emergency belongs in the ER.

When should I go to the ER?

Go to the ER for severe swelling, trouble breathing, trouble swallowing, uncontrolled bleeding, major trauma, or any medical emergency.

What can Elm Ridge do?

Elm Ridge can evaluate the injury, attempt stabilization when appropriate, address pain, take X-rays, and discuss monitoring or replacement options if the tooth cannot be saved.

What might the treatment involve?

Treatment may include reimplantation and stabilization, X-rays, follow-up monitoring, root canal treatment later, or replacement planning. Success cannot be guaranteed.

Permanent vs baby teeth

Permanent teeth are time-sensitive and may be replanted in selected cases. Baby teeth should not be replanted because that can damage the developing permanent tooth.

If the tooth cannot be saved

Replacement options may include an implant, bridge, partial denture, or staged plan depending on age, bone, bite, and injury pattern.

Will insurance apply?

Emergency exam, X-ray, and triage commonly range from $150-$350 for emergency exam, X-rays, and triage; treatment is separate. Treatment such as a filling, crown, root canal, extraction, medication, or follow-up care is separate. We can estimate benefits, but final payment is determined by the insurance company.

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