Tooth loss among adults necessitate immediate attention. Once an adult or permanent tooth is knocked out, the chances for it to survive is high if restored into the gum right away and consulting a dentist. If delayed, the less chance for it to survive.
As for baby tooth, it is not placed back into the mouth if knocked out. Remember that doing so can damage the developing permanent tooth beneath the gum. Children can have both baby and adult teeth between 6-12 years of age. If in doubt, a dentist must be consulted.
First aid for tooth loss in adults
- Hold the tooth on the crown, not on the root (pointed part)
- In case the tooth is dirty, carefully rinse it using saline or milk for a few seconds.
- Slowly position the tooth back into the gum. Make sure that the pointed root goes into the gum. This should only be done if the individual is conscious.
- Hold the tooth in place by instructing the individual to gently bite on something soft such as a handkerchief.
- Consult a dentist right away.
In case the adult tooth could not be placed back into the gum, cover it with a plastic food wrap or immerse in milk or saline. A dentist must be consulted right away so that proper care can be given for the tooth loss.
How to deal with a baby tooth loss
If a child ends up with tooth loss, it should not be placed into the gum due the following reasons:
- The teeth might fuse into the socket which causes issues once the time comes for the baby tooth to drop out naturally.
- Impairment to the permanent tooth that sits below the gum.
The baby teeth must not be returned into the mouth when knocked out. A dentist must be consulted to ensure that there is no damage to the teeth or mouth or deal with bleeding in some case.
Quick Note / Disclaimer
The material posted on this page on tooth loss is for learning and educational purposes only. To learn to recognize and manage dental injuries including tooth loss, register for a first aid and CPR course with Saskatoon First Aid.