What to do if a child breaks or moves a tooth
Short answer
For a permanent tooth: try to see a dentist within 1 hour. For a baby tooth: never put it back, but see a dentist soon.
Simple explanation
Rinse the mouth gently with water. If a permanent tooth is out, hold it by the crown, rinse with milk if dirty, and try to place it back or store it in milk on the way to the dentist.
When this usually matters
Fast action can save the permanent tooth.
When to seek dental help
Always see a dentist after any dental trauma, even if the tooth looks fine.
Questions to ask your dentist
- •Is the tooth still alive?
- •Will the color change permanently?
- •What does this tooth need — monitoring, a splint, or a restoration?
This is simple educational information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a dental examination. Your dentist may recommend something different depending on your mouth, X-rays, pain, infection, gums, bone, medical history, and clinical judgment.