Get the details of how the accident happened, as this provides the dentist with good diagnostic information. Rinse the mouth with warm water. If the gum is involved and bleeding, apply some pressure to it with a clean wash cloth or gauze. If there is an injury to the face, apply a cold compress over the cheek or lip in the area of the injury. Recover any broken tooth fragments. Get immediate dental attention.

A knocked out primary (baby) tooth should never be re-implanted as this can cause damage to the developing permanent tooth. It is important, however, to recover the tooth and account for it and its parts.

A permanent tooth has a good chance of being saved if the following steps are carried out. Recover the tooth, making sure to hold it by the crown (top) and not the root end. Do not touch the root. Rinse, but do not clean or handle the tooth more than necessary. Reinsert the tooth in the socket in the correct position making sure it’s not backward and hold it in place using a clean piece of gauze or cloth. If the tooth cannot be reinserted, carry it in a cup containing milk or the patient’s own saliva. Because time is essential, see a dentist immediately. The longer the tooth is out of its socket, the lower the chance of being able to save it.

In the event of jaw injury which may involve a broken jaw, go immediately to the nearest emergency room. Trauma this severe will usually involve other areas of concern. For children’s dental emergencies, it’s important to act quickly and consult with a pediatric dental professional. After addressing the immediate issue, schedule an appointment with your pediatric dentist to ensure proper healing and care.

If your child experiences bleeding after losing a baby tooth, gently fold a clean wash cloth or piece of gauze and place it (tightly) over the bleeding area. Bite down on the gauze for 15 minutes; the area must have firm constant pressure for the bleeding to stop.