Knocked-Out Tooth (Dental Avulsion)
What Every Parent Should Know in an Emergency
Accidents happen—especially with active kids. Whether it’s during sports, playtime, or a fall, a knocked-out tooth can be alarming. Knowing what to do in those first few minutes can make all the difference in saving your child’s smile.
At Beverly Pediatric Dentistry, we’re here to guide families through dental emergencies with calm, expert care when it matters most.
Common Causes of Knocked-Out Teeth
Children are naturally active, and dental injuries are often linked to everyday activities such as:
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Contact sports (basketball, soccer, football)
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Playground falls
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Bike, scooter, or skateboard accidents
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Rough play or collisions
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Slips and falls at home or school
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Dental trauma is one of the most common childhood injuries.
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Studies estimate that up to 1 in 5 children will experience a dental injury before adulthood.
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Front teeth are the most commonly affected, especially during sports and play
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Wearing a custom mouthguard during sports can significantly reduce the risk of dental injuries.
Baby Tooth vs. Permanent Tooth: What to Do
Baby Tooth (Primary Tooth)
🚫 Do NOT put the baby tooth back into the socket.
Reinserting a baby tooth can damage the developing permanent tooth underneath.
What to do instead:
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Stay calm and comfort your child
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Control any bleeding with gentle pressure using gauze
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Contact Beverly Pediatric Dentistry as soon as possible for evaluation
Permanent Tooth (Adult Tooth)
✅ Act quickly—time is critical
If a permanent tooth is knocked out:
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Find the tooth immediately
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Hold it by the crown (top), NOT the root
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If dirty, gently rinse with water (do NOT scrub or use soap)
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Try to place it back into the socket if possible
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Have your child bite down on clean gauze to hold it in place
If reinsertion isn’t possible:
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Place the tooth in milk (preferred) or a small amount of water
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Avoid letting the tooth dry out
⏱️ Important: The best chance of saving the tooth is within 30–60 minutes
👉 Seek emergency dental care immediately
Why Timing Matters
When a permanent tooth is knocked out, the tiny cells on the root surface begin to break down quickly. Fast action can help preserve these cells and improve the chances of successfully saving the tooth.
Delays can reduce the likelihood of reintegration and may lead to more complex treatment later.
Signs You Should Seek Immediate Care
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A permanent tooth has been knocked out
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A tooth is loose, displaced, or pushed inward
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Bleeding that doesn’t stop after applying gentle pressure
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Pain, swelling, or visible damage to teeth or gums
Even if you’re unsure, it’s always best to have your child evaluated promptly.
Preventing Dental Injuries
While not all accidents can be avoided, there are ways to reduce risk:
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Wear a mouthguard during sports and physical activities
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Use helmets when biking or scootering
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Childproof home environments where possible
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Encourage safe play habits
At Beverly Pediatric Dentistry, we can provide guidance and custom mouthguards to help protect your child’s smile.
Emergency Dental Care You Can Trust
Dental emergencies can be stressful—but you’re not alone. Dr. Maryam Mohammadi and the team at Beverly Pediatric Dentistry are experienced in treating pediatric dental injuries with a calm, compassionate approach.
We prioritize:
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Quick response and emergency care
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Gentle treatment for anxious children
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Clear guidance for parents every step of the way