A Knocked-Out Tooth is a Dental Emergency
A knocked-out tooth (avulsed tooth) is a serious dental emergency, and the first 30 minutes are critical to saving it. Whether it happened at Zilker Park, Lady Bird Lake Trail, or right at home, knowing what to do immediately can mean the difference between saving or losing your tooth.
Quick Answer
- Find the tooth and pick it up by the crown
- Gently rinse with milk or saline if dirty
- Reinsert into the socket if possible
- If reinsertion isn’t possible, store it in milk or saline
- Get to an emergency dentist in Austin as soon as possible
Need Immediate Help?
Call (512) 521-7000 – Celebrate Dental Austin
Step-by-Step Guide to Saving a Knocked-Out Tooth
Pick Up the Tooth by the Crown
- Locate the tooth quickly
- Hold it by the crown (the white part)
- Do not touch the root. This can damage important fibers needed for reattachment
Rinse Gently If Needed
- If the tooth is dirty, rinse it with milk or saline solution
- Do not use tap water, alcohol, or soap
- Do not scrub or dry the tooth
Reinsert the Tooth If Possible
- Try to gently place the tooth back into its socket
- Hold it in place by biting on gauze or a clean cloth
- If it won’t fit easily, do not force it. Move to the next step
Keep the Tooth Moist
- Best option: Store it in milk
- Alternative: Use a saline solution or a tooth preservation kit
- Last resort: Hold the tooth inside your cheek (your saliva can help keep it alive)
- Never store it in water—this can damage root cells
See an Emergency Dentist Immediately
- Time is everything. Teeth have the best chance of survival if reimplanted within 30 to 60 minutes
- Go to an emergency dentist in Austin as soon as possible
What Happens at the Dentist
Your emergency dentist will
- Examine the injury and assess the tooth
- Reinsert and stabilize the tooth with a splint
- Take X-rays to check for damage
- Prescribe antibiotics to prevent infection
- Discuss tooth replacement options if the tooth cannot be saved
Tooth Replacement Options If Needed
- Dental Implants – Long-lasting, natural-looking replacement
- Bridges – Connects to nearby teeth for a seamless look
- Partial Dentures – Removable and cost-effective solution
Visit Celebrate Dental Austin for emergency care.
What If It’s a Baby Tooth
- Do not reinsert a baby tooth. This can damage the permanent tooth underneath
- Still, visit a pediatric dentist to check for gum or jaw injury
Pediatric emergency dentistry available at Celebrate Dental Austin
How to Prevent Knocked-Out Teeth
- Wear a mouthguard during sports
- Avoid chewing hard objects like ice, popcorn kernels, and hard candy
- Take fall precautions, especially for kids and seniors
Need an Emergency Dentist in Austin? Act Now
A knocked-out tooth won’t wait. Every second counts. Visit Celebrate Dental Austin for immediate care and the best chance of saving your tooth.
Call Now: (512) 521-7000
Visit Us: Emergency Dentist in Austin
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We accept insurance and offer flexible payment options.
Act fast—your smile depends on it.
