TL;DR
- Handle knocked‑out teeth by the crown only; reinsert or store in milk/saline
- Control bleeding with firm pressure and gauze; avoid spitting
- Use a mouthguard to prevent future injuries; replace after damage
- See an emergency dentist quickly; ER for breathing/swallowing problems
Contact sports and high‑energy activities can cause chipped, displaced, or avulsed (knocked‑out) teeth. Use this rapid checklist to protect the tooth and reduce complications.
1) Check Airway and Bleeding First
- If there’s trouble breathing or uncontrolled bleeding, go to the ER immediately.
- Otherwise, seat the athlete and keep them calm.
2) Identify the Injury
- Knocked‑out (avulsed) tooth: Tooth fully out of the socket.
- Displaced tooth: Pushed sideways/into/out of the socket.
- Chipped/Broken tooth: Part of the tooth missing; sharp edge.
- Soft‑tissue cuts: Lip/cheek/tongue injuries.
3) Avulsed Tooth Protocol (Permanent Teeth)
- Find the tooth and hold by the crown only (white chewing part).
- Rinse briefly with milk or saline if dirty—don’t scrub or use soap.
- Reinsert into the socket if the athlete is conscious and cooperative; bite gently on gauze to hold.
- If reinsertion isn’t possible, store in milk or saline (not water).
- Get to an emergency dentist within 60 minutes.
Note: Do not reinsert baby teeth; see a dentist instead.
4) Displaced Tooth
- Do not force the tooth back. Have the athlete bite softly on gauze.
- Seek urgent dental care—splinting and repositioning may be needed.
5) Chipped or Broken Tooth
- Rinse mouth with lukewarm water.
- Save fragments in milk or saline if found.
- Cover sharp edges with orthodontic wax if available.
- Arrange an emergency dental visit for bonding, fillings, or crown.
6) Control Bleeding
- Apply firm pressure with clean gauze for 20–30 minutes.
- Avoid spitting or rinsing vigorously (can restart bleeding).
7) Pain and Swelling
- Cold compress on the cheek (15–20 minutes on/off).
- Consider OTC analgesics as directed on label.
8) Prevention
- Wear a properly fitted mouthguard for contact and stick sports.
- Replace mouthguards after major impacts or if torn/deformed.
- Enforce rules against dangerous plays and ensure adequate protective gear.
Conclusion
Fast, correct first aid makes a major difference in outcomes. Prioritize airway and bleeding, manage the tooth appropriately, and see an emergency dentist as soon as possible.
