Injuries can vary widely in severity, but one thing is certain: teeth don’t heal themselves. In our First Aid for Nursing Students course, questions about tooth injuries are common. What do you do with a knocked-out tooth? Can it be saved? While dental professionals ultimately determine the best treatment, the right first aid steps can significantly increase the chances of saving a tooth.
Let’s explore how to prevent tooth injuries and what to do if you or someone else suffers a knocked-out tooth.
Common Causes of Tooth Loss
Forceful blows or impacts to the mouth (e.g., during sports or accidents).
Preventing Dental Injuries - Knocked-Out Teeth
Wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Use mouth guards or face masks during sports and high-risk activities.
Buckle Up: Always wear a seatbelt in vehicles to prevent injury during accidents.
Avoid Distractions While Eating/Drinking in Vehicles: Reducing risks during sudden stops or collisions.
Recognizing a Knocked-Out Tooth
A visible gap where the tooth was.
Minimal bleeding from the gums.
Pain in the affected area.
Broken or deformed teeth.
How to Help Someone with a Knocked-Out Tooth
Assess the Scene and the Individual:
Ensure the area is safe before approaching.
Check ABCs: Airway, Breathing, Circulation. Wear gloves if available.
Call 911 if Necessary:
If you suspect severe injuries (e.g., airway blockage, excessive bleeding), call emergency services immediately.
Care for the Tooth:
Control bleeding by having the individual bite down on a clean dressing.
Handle the tooth carefully, touching only the crown (the white part), not the root.
Gently rinse the tooth or fragments with water. Avoid scrubbing or removing tissue fragments.
Place the tooth in:
Milk (preferred).
Calcium-enriched soy or almond milk.
Water, if milk is unavailable.
Alternatively, wrap the tooth in a clean cloth or gauze soaked in the person’s saliva.
Store the tooth in a sealed, labeled container and ensure it stays with the injured individual.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention:
Visit a dentist or emergency room dentist within the first hour for the best chance of saving the tooth.
Important Notes
Head injuries often accompany dental trauma. It’s wise to have any head, neck, or spine concerns assessed by a medical professional.
Why First Aid Knowledge Matters for Nursing Students
As a nursing student, learning first aid skills equips you to respond confidently to unexpected injuries. Knowing how to handle dental emergencies, like knocked-out teeth, could make all the difference in saving a patient’s smile and overall health.
Protect Yourself, Act Fast, Save Lives
Join our First Aid and CPR Course today to build your confidence in handling real-world emergencies.
✨ Learn First Aid Today, Save a Life Tomorrow with Saving Grace Medical Academy Ltd.
This material is for informational purposes only, derived from resources provided by The Canadian Red Cross, Alberta Heart & Stroke Foundation, and Alberta Health Services. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, training, or treatment. Consult your local physician or safety training facility for further guidance.
RESOURCES:
Author - Saving Grace Medical Academy Ltd
Jason T
Retired EMT - Heart & Stroke Foundation Senior Instructor