Emergency Dental Care
Knocked-Out Tooth
A knocked-out tooth can be saved — but only if you act fast. Call us immediately at 540-443-2659. Every minute counts.
Reviewed by Dr. Sang Kim, DMD — Updated April 2026
Time is everything
When a permanent tooth is completely knocked out, the window for successful reimplantation is narrow. The best outcomes happen when the tooth is placed back in the socket within thirty minutes of the injury. After an hour, the chances of saving the tooth drop significantly. That's why we urge you to call Bridgewater Dental Center at 540-443-2659 the moment it happens. Dr. Sang Kim and our team will prepare for your arrival so we can begin treatment the instant you walk through the door.
How to preserve the tooth
What you do in the first few minutes after the injury makes a real difference. Follow these steps carefully:
- Find the tooth and pick it up by the crown — the white part you normally see. Never touch the root.
- Gently rinsethe tooth with milk or clean water if it's dirty. Do not scrub it or remove any tissue fragments attached to the root.
- Try to reinsert it into the socket. Hold it in place by gently biting down on a clean cloth or gauze. This is the single best thing you can do for the tooth.
- If reinsertion isn't possible, place the tooth in a small container of cold milk. Milk keeps the root cells alive far better than water. A tooth preservation kit, if available, is even better.
- Do not let the tooth dry out. If no milk is available, the tooth can be held inside the cheek between the gum and cheek tissue as a last resort.
What happens when you arrive
Dr. Kim will examine the tooth and the socket, take X-rays to check for additional fractures, and clean the area gently. If the tooth is intact and the root cells are still viable, he will reposition it into the socket and splint it to the neighboring teeth. The splint holds the tooth stable while the surrounding bone and ligaments heal, typically for two to four weeks. A follow-up root canal is often needed within a few weeks to prevent infection in the damaged nerve.
When reimplantation isn't possible
Sometimes the tooth has been out of the mouth too long, or the root is fractured beyond repair. In these cases, Dr. Kim will discuss replacement options including dental implants, bridges, or a temporary solution while you decide on a long-term plan. The important thing is that we stabilize the area, manage your pain, and give you a clear path forward.
Common causes we see in Bridgewater
Knocked-out teeth are common among athletes at Bridgewater College, Turner Ashby High School, and local recreational leagues. Falls, collisions, and playground accidents also bring families to our office. If your child knocks out a baby tooth, do not attempt to reimplant it — call us and we will guide you on what to do next.
We're here when it matters most
Patients across Bridgewater, Harrisonburg, and Rockingham County rely on our team for fast, skilled emergency care. If dental anxiety is a concern, we offer sedation options so you can stay calm during treatment. For patients without insurance, our Virginia Dental Club provides discounts on emergency and restorative procedures. Visit us at 100 Parkside Dr., Bridgewater, VA 22812.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to save a knocked-out tooth?+
The best chance of saving the tooth is within thirty minutes of the injury. After an hour, the odds drop significantly. Call us at 540-443-2659 immediately and head to our Bridgewater office as fast as you safely can.
Should I put a knocked-out tooth in water?+
Milk is much better than water. Water can damage the delicate root cells that need to survive for reimplantation to succeed. If you don't have milk, you can hold the tooth between your cheek and gum as a last resort.
What if my child knocks out a baby tooth?+
Do not try to reimplant a baby tooth, as doing so can damage the permanent tooth developing underneath. Call us and we'll advise you on next steps and whether your child needs to be seen.
Will a reimplanted tooth last permanently?+
Many reimplanted teeth can last for years or even a lifetime with proper follow-up care, including a root canal and regular monitoring. The outcome depends heavily on how quickly the tooth was treated and the condition of the root.
What happens if the tooth can't be reimplanted?+
Dr. Kim will discuss replacement options including dental implants, bridges, or a temporary solution while you decide on a long-term plan. The important thing is that we stabilize the area and manage your pain right away.
Should I go to the emergency room or the dentist for a knocked-out tooth?+
Come directly to our Bridgewater office if the injury is limited to the tooth. We have the specialized tools and expertise to reimplant it. If there is a serious head injury, uncontrolled bleeding, or difficulty breathing, go to the ER first and then follow up with us.
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