In a dental emergency, what you do in the first few minutes often matters more than how quickly you reach a clinic. These are widely accepted first-aid steps — they are not a substitute for being seen, and urgent problems should always be followed by a call to the clinic.
A knocked-out adult tooth
This is the most time-critical dental emergency. An adult tooth that has been knocked out has the best chance of survival when it is put back into the socket within minutes.
- Hold the tooth by the crown — the part you normally see — never the root
- If it is dirty, rinse briefly in milk or saline; do not scrub it or use soap
- If you can, place it back into the socket the right way round and bite gently on a clean cloth
- If you cannot, store it in milk (or saliva) — never in plain water and never dry
- Seek dental care immediately
A knocked-out baby tooth
A baby tooth should not be put back, because doing so can damage the developing adult tooth underneath. Control the bleeding with gentle pressure on a clean gauze and have the child seen so the area and neighbouring teeth can be checked.
Broken, chipped or loosened teeth
Rinse the mouth with warm water and keep any tooth fragments in milk — they can sometimes be reattached. A cold compress on the outside of the cheek reduces swelling. Avoid chewing on that side and book an appointment promptly, even if there is no pain, because cracks can expose the inner tooth.
Severe toothache or facial swelling
Keep the area clean, rinse with warm salt water, and avoid very hot, cold or sweet foods. Do not place aspirin or clove oil directly on the gum, as this can burn the tissue. Any facial swelling, fever, or swelling that affects the eye, floor of the mouth, breathing or swallowing needs urgent medical or dental attention without delay.
Prevention worth the effort
Most childhood dental injuries happen during sport, cycling and play. A properly fitted mouthguard for contact sports is the single most effective preventive step, and it should be checked as a child grows.
The short version
Keep a knocked-out adult tooth moist in milk, never scrub the root, and call the clinic straight away. Speed and moisture decide whether a tooth can be saved.
This article gives general dental health information and is not a diagnosis or a treatment plan for your child. For advice specific to your family, please speak to our team at the clinic.