Time-Critical Emergency
Knocked-Out Tooth: You Have 30 Minutes
An avulsed (knocked-out) tooth is one of the few true dental emergencies with a hard time limit. The chance of successful re-implantation drops sharply after 30 minutes outside the socket.
Do this immediately:
- Pick up the tooth by the crown — never touch the root
- If dirty, rinse gently with milk or saline — do NOT scrub
- Re-insert the tooth into the socket and bite down gently on a cloth
- If re-insertion isn't possible: store the tooth in milk, saliva, or saline — not tap water
- Get to an emergency dentist within 30 minutes
Why time matters
The periodontal ligament cells on the root surface must remain alive for re-implantation to succeed. These cells die rapidly when exposed to air or tap water. Studies show:
- Under 30 minutes dry time: best prognosis
- 30–60 minutes: significantly reduced success rate
- Over 60 minutes dry: poor prognosis; root resorption likely
Important notes
- •This protocol applies to permanent (adult) teeth only — do NOT re-implant baby teeth
- •If the patient has altered consciousness or may have swallowed the tooth, go to the ER
- •Tetanus shot may be needed if the tooth was contaminated by soil
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