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Chipped or Knocked-Out Tooth?
What Every Parent Should Know
Accidents happen, especially when children are playing, riding bikes, or participating in sports. If your child chips or knocks out a tooth, staying calm and acting quickly can make a big difference.
If Your Child Chips a Tooth
o Stay calm and comfort your child
o Rinse the mouth gently with water
o Apply a cold compress if there is swelling
o If possible, save the broken tooth piece
o Contact our office as soon as possible for an evaluation.
Even small chips should be examined because damage may extend deeper than it appears.
If Your Child Knocks Out a Tooth
First, determine whether it is a baby tooth or a permanent tooth.
Baby Tooth
o Do not try to place it back into the socket
o Contact our office for evaluation
Permanent Tooth
o Pick up the tooth by the crown, not the root
o If dirty, gently rinse it with water
o Store it in milk or saline solution
o Seek emergency dental care immediately. The best chance of saving the tooth is within 30–60 minutes
Contact our office immediately if your child has:
o Heavy bleeding
o Severe pain
o A loose or displaced tooth
o A knocked-out permanent tooth
o Swelling of the face or gums
o Difficulty biting or closing the mouth
Preventing Dental Injuries
You can help protect your child's smile by:
o Wearing a custom athletic mouthguard during sports
o Avoiding chewing on hard objects such as ice or hard candy
o Using helmets and protective equipment during activities
o Scheduling regular dental checkups
Parent-Friendly FAQ
Can a chipped tooth be repaired?
Yes. Many chipped teeth can be restored with tooth-colored bonding, while larger fractures may require additional treatment.
Should I put a baby tooth back in?
No. Baby teeth should not be replanted because they may damage the developing permanent tooth.
What should I store a knocked-out permanent tooth in?
Milk is the best readily available option. Saline solution is also acceptable. Avoid storing the tooth dry.
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