Step 1: Find the Tooth and Pick It Up Correctly

Carefully locate the tooth.

✔ Pick it up by the crown (the white chewing surface).
✘ Do NOT touch the root.

Dentists advise avoiding contact with the root because it contains delicate cells needed for reattachment.

Step 2: If Dirty, Rinse Gently (Do NOT Scrub)

If the tooth has dirt on it:

• Rinse it briefly with milk or saline solution if available.

• If neither is available, use clean water for a few seconds.

• Do NOT scrub, scrape, or dry it.

Colgate explains that scrubbing or removing tissue fragments can damage important attachment cells.

Step 3: Try to Reinsert the Tooth (If Possible)

If your child is calm and cooperative:

• Gently place the tooth back into the socket.

• Make sure it’s facing the correct direction.

• Have your child bite down gently on clean gauze or cloth to hold it in place.

Dentists confirm that immediate reinsertion significantly improves the chance the tooth will survive.

Step 4: If You Can’t Reinsert It, Store It Properly

If reinserting isn’t possible:

Place the tooth in one of the following:

• Cold milk (best common option)

• Saline solution

• Inside the child’s cheek (only if the child is old enough not to swallow it)

• A tooth preservation kit if available

Dentists explain that milk helps preserve root cells better than water.

Do NOT store it dry or in plain water for long periods.

Step 5: Get to a Dentist Immediately

Head to a dentist or emergency dental clinic right away.

Dentists emphasize that prompt dental care is essential to increase the chance of saving the tooth.

Even if you’ve successfully reinserted it, professional stabilization is still required.