Knocked-Out Tooth: Act Fast (Time Matters Most)
A fully knocked-out permanent tooth is one of the few true dental emergencies. What you do in the first few minutes can save it.
What you may be experiencing
If a permanent tooth has been completely knocked out (avulsed), time is critical — the best chance of saving it is within the first hour. Stay calm and act quickly, then call us right away at (770) 478-1001.
Common causes
- A fall, sports injury, or accident
- A blow to the face or mouth
Can it wait? A quick guide
Call us today
- Any fully knocked-out permanent (adult) tooth — call immediately
- Heavy bleeding, or injury to the jaw, head, or neck
- Loss of consciousness or other injuries from the accident
A regular appointment is fine
- A baby (primary) tooth that was knocked out — do NOT try to reinsert it, but call us for guidance
- A tooth that’s loosened or pushed out of position but not fully out
For a head injury, loss of consciousness, or bleeding that won’t stop, call 911 or go to the ER first.
What you can do right now
- Pick the tooth up by the crown (the white part) — never touch the root
- If it’s dirty, rinse it gently with milk or water for a few seconds — do not scrub or remove any tissue
- If you can, place it back in the socket and hold it there by biting on gauze
- If you can’t reinsert it, keep it in a cup of milk (or your saliva) — not water — and come in immediately
How we help at Highmark Dental Care
- Attempt to re-implant and stabilize (splint) the tooth when it’s viable
- Check for other injuries and manage bleeding and comfort
- If the tooth can’t be saved, discuss replacement options — an implant crown, bridge, or partial denture
Cost & insurance
The right treatment — and its cost — depends on what we find during your exam, so we’ll always explain your options and the fees clearly before we begin anything. We accept many dental insurance plans and file your claims as a courtesy; any benefit estimate is exactly that — an estimate, and you’re responsible for what your plan doesn’t cover. We also accept cash, check, and major credit cards, with flexible payment arrangements available. See our Insurance page for the plans we accept — and we’re glad to help you understand your benefits before you decide.
Frequently asked questions
How long do I have to save a knocked-out tooth?
The first 30–60 minutes are the most important. The sooner the tooth is back in place, the better the chance it survives — so call us right away and head in.
Should I put a knocked-out baby tooth back in?
No. Knocked-out baby teeth are not re-implanted, because it can damage the developing permanent tooth. Call us for guidance instead.
What if I can’t get the tooth back in the socket?
Keep it moist in milk or your own saliva (never plain water or a dry tissue) and get to us as fast as possible.
Not sure how urgent it is? Just call.
Our team will help you decide the right next step — and we keep time open for emergencies with same or next-day appointments when needed.