A sports accident, fall, or blow to the face can knock out or break a tooth. In these cases, time is working against you. Your dentist in Sainte-Marthe-sur-le-Lac guides you through the essential steps to take in the first 30 minutes to maximize the chances of saving your tooth.
Quick Answer
- Pick up the tooth by the crown — never touch the root
- Rinse it gently with water without scrubbing
- Try to reinsert it into the socket
- If not possible, store it in milk or saliva
- See a dentist within the hour
Completely Knocked-Out Tooth (Avulsion)
This is a top-priority dental emergency. The ligaments around the root can survive approximately 30 to 60 minutes if kept moist.
Step 1: Retrieve the Tooth
Hold the tooth by the white visible part (the crown). Never touch the root — this prevents damage to the cells that allow reimplantation.
Step 2: Rinse Gently
If the tooth is dirty, rinse it quickly under a gentle stream of water. Don't scrub, and don't use soap or disinfectant.
Step 3: Try Reimplantation
If you feel able, gently place the tooth back into the socket and bite on a compress to hold it in place. This is the best-case scenario.
Step 4: Storage if Reimplantation Isn't Possible
Place the tooth in a small container of whole milk, saline solution, or as a last resort keep it between the cheek and gum in saliva. Tap water is not ideal as it can damage root cells.
Broken or Fractured Tooth
A fracture can be minor (small chip) or major (pulp is exposed). In all cases:
- Rinse your mouth with warm water
- Recover and store all pieces in milk
- Apply a cold compress to the cheek
- Cover sharp edges with orthodontic wax or gum
Special Case: Baby Tooth in a Child
Don't try to reimplant a knocked-out baby tooth — it could damage the permanent tooth germ underneath. However, do see a pediatric dentist to ensure no damage to the permanent teeth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you save a tooth that's been out of the mouth for over an hour?
The chances decrease significantly after 60 minutes, but reimplantation may still be attempted. The sooner you consult, the better the chances.
Should I go to the ER or the dentist?
Choose the dentist — they can reimplant the tooth. If your clinic is closed, call the emergency line or go to a hospital with a dental department.
How much does tooth reimplantation cost?
Costs vary depending on complexity. Most dental insurance covers emergency treatments. Our team will explain costs before any procedure.
In case of a knocked-out or broken tooth, every minute counts. Call our Sainte-Marthe clinic immediately at (450) 472-9898 for an emergency appointment.
Need an appointment?
Our Sainte-Marthe-sur-le-Lac team is ready to answer your questions and provide quality care.
