Tooth Knocked Out: What Should I Do?

My tooth got knocked out! What should I do?

1.

Pick up the tooth by the crown, NOT the root.

2.

If it is dirty, gently rinse the tooth with water.

3.

Reposition the tooth in the socket immediately, if possible.

No matter what, keep the tooth moist at all times.

4.

If it isn’t possible to keep the tooth in your mouth, put the tooth in cold whole milk or request a “Save A Tooth” kit from USC Student Health or DPS.

5.

30 min

Arrange for immediate treatment within 30 minutes.

Teeth knocked out by impact or trauma don’t have to be lost. Act quickly!

Within 30 minutes, follow the tooth-saving instructions below.

1. Pick up the tooth by the crown, NOT the root.

Find the tooth immediately; don't leave it behind! Handle the tooth carefully when you pick it up and never touch the root of the tooth, only the crown (the chewing surface).

2. If it is dirty, gently rinse the tooth with water.

Use only water to gently rinse off any dirt. Don’t use soap or chemicals, don’t scrub or dry the tooth, and don’t wrap the tooth in a tissue or cloth.

3. Reposition the tooth in the socket immediately, if possible.

Try to put the tooth back into its socket right away. Gently push it in with your fingers by handling the crown or position your tooth above the socket and close your mouth slowly. Hold the tooth in place with your fingers or by gently biting down on it.

4. No matter what, keep the tooth moist at all times.

If you can’t put your tooth back into its socket, put it in milk or keep it inside your mouth tucked next to your cheek. Don’t use regular tap water to keep the tooth moist. Root surface cells can’t tolerate tap water for extended periods of time.

Another option is to get a “Save a Tooth” kit. Call Student Health (213-740-9355/WELL) or the Department of Public Safety (213-740-4321 or 323-442-1000) and say you need a “Save A Tooth” kit.

Both teams are available 24/7.

5. Arrange for immediate treatment within 30 minutes.

Dentists at Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry of USC offer immediate treatment for students who have dental trauma.

During business hours* contact the dentistry operator at 213-740-2800 to reach the urgent care and advanced endodontics clinics.

For evening, weekend, or holiday dental emergencies, call the afterhours dentistry line at 213-764-5660.

If you are at an emergency department receiving care for other injuries, make sure your care providers are in contact with the USC Oral Surgery department. * Dental urgent care services are available at the following times: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday (8:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m.)

Tuesday (1:00-5:00 p.m., 6:00-9:00 p.m.)

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