Tooth (Permanent) Avulsed

Table of Contents

A tooth avulsion occurs when a tooth is completely knocked out of its socket. This is a dental emergency, particularly for permanent teeth, as prompt action can significantly affect the tooth's prognosis.

Actions

  1. Find the tooth: Locate the avulsed tooth and handle it only by the crown (the part you can see in the mouth).
  2. Clean gently: Rinse the tooth with milk or saline solution (not water) to remove dirt. Do not scrub or use soap.
  3. If the tooth is a permanent tooth, replant if possible: If the student tolerates, gently insert the tooth back into its socket.
  4. Do not replant a baby tooth that is not permanent.
  5. Store if not replanting: If replanting is not possible, store the tooth in a container of milk.
  6. Contact the parents right away and recommend that they contact their child’s dentist for next steps or recommend the parents go to an emergency room immediately.
  7. Stay with the student until help arrives.
  8. Document the date and time, any delegated or certified interventions provided, observations, student response to intervention (if applicable), and your signature and credentials (if applicable).
  9. Follow any additional school or program procedure(s).
  10. Debrief with the school nurse.