LOSING A TOOTH

IF AN adult tooth is knocked out, it should be put back in its socket as soon as possible — this increases its chances of being successfully reimplanted. If this isn’t possible, then the tooth should be protected to stop it from drying out. Ideally, the person should keep the tooth inside their cheek until they get to hospital or a dentist. If they can’t, you can place the tooth in a small container of milk.

For a child who has not yet got adult teeth, it’s unlikely that a dentist will attempt to reimplant it, as this could damage the adult tooth developing below it in the gum. You should not put the tooth back in the child’s mouth due to the added risk that the child might swallow or choke on it.

WHAT TO DO

Recover the tooth. If there is excessive bleeding, get the person to bite on a clean cloth to stem the blood flow.

For an adult, gently push the tooth into the socket.

Press a gauze pad between the bottom and top teeth to help keep the tooth in place.

Take or send the person to a dentist or to hospital.