Patient video
Welcoming and Wonderful Practice
A patient shares the welcoming atmosphere and positive experience they found at our Port Dover office.
★★★★★
Port Dover Family Dentistry
Knocked-Out Tooth Treatment in Peacock Point
A knocked-out adult tooth needs action within minutes. Peacock Point patients can learn how to handle and store the tooth and when to call our Port Dover office.
New patients welcomeCDCP accepted
Let’s get you smiling
Book an appointment
Tell us how we can help. Our team will follow up to confirm a time.
Caring for Peacock Point residents and cottagers at our Port Dover office
Browse every dental service for Peacock PointEvery minute counts
Quick, careful handling gives a knocked-out tooth its best chance.
When a permanent tooth is knocked completely out of its socket, the cells on the root surface begin to dry and die quickly. Replanting the tooth or storing it properly, then getting to a dentist as soon as possible, can improve the chance that it reattaches. Baby teeth are handled differently and should not be put back.
If this happens at Peacock Point, on the beach or anywhere nearby, call our Port Dover office immediately. The team can guide you through first steps over the phone and arrange urgent assessment based on current availability.
Immediate steps
Act quickly and handle the tooth gently.
Find and handle the tooth correctly
Pick up the tooth by the crown, the white chewing part, not the root. Avoid scrubbing or touching the root surface. If it is dirty, rinse it briefly with milk or a gentle stream of water for a few seconds. Do not use soap, alcohol or wrap it in tissue, as these can damage the delicate root cells.
Try to replant if possible
If the person is alert and able to cooperate, gently push the tooth back into the socket, facing the right way. Have them bite on a clean cloth to hold it in place. Replanting within minutes gives the best outcome. If replanting is not possible, move to storing the tooth properly and get to the dentist.
Storing the tooth
Keep the tooth moist on the way to the dentist.
Best storage options
Place the tooth in a small container of cold milk, which helps preserve root cells. A tooth-preservation solution, if available in a first-aid kit, is also suitable. If neither is available, an adult can hold the tooth inside the cheek, provided there is no risk of swallowing it. Saline is another option.
What to avoid
Do not store the tooth in plain tap water for long periods, as it can damage root cells. Do not let it dry out. Do not wrap it in tissue or cloth. Avoid touching the root. These precautions help keep the tooth in the best condition possible until it can be assessed and replanted.
At the office
The dentist works to secure the tooth.
Replanting and stabilising
If the tooth has not been replanted, the dentist will clean the socket and gently reposition it. A flexible splint is usually attached to neighbouring teeth to hold the tooth steady while it heals. X-rays help confirm position and check the root and bone. Antibiotics or a tetanus check may be recommended.
Checking for other injuries
The dentist also examines nearby teeth, the gums, lips and jaw for additional injuries. Other teeth may be loose, chipped or displaced. Cuts may need cleaning or stitches. Mention any jaw pain or difficulty biting. A thorough check ensures that injuries beyond the knocked-out tooth are not missed.
Follow-up
Ongoing care helps the tooth heal.
Caring for the splinted tooth
Eat soft foods and avoid biting with the injured tooth while the splint is in place. Brush gently and keep the area clean as instructed. Use any prescribed rinse or medication. The splint is typically removed after a period of healing, which the dentist will determine based on the injury.
Long-term monitoring
A replanted tooth often needs root canal treatment, since the nerve is usually damaged. Follow-up visits and X-rays check for infection, root resorption and healing. Report pain, swelling or discolouration promptly. Even with excellent care, some replanted teeth are eventually lost, and replacement options can be discussed if needed.
Planning your appointment
If a tooth is knocked out at Peacock Point.
Call our Port Dover office immediately. Replant the tooth if possible or store it in milk and bring it with you. For head injuries or breathing difficulty, seek emergency medical care first.
Note the time the tooth was knocked out and bring any other fragments you found at the scene.
Port Dover Family Dentistry
697 Norfolk County Hwy 6, Unit 2, Port Dover, ON N0A 1N2519-583-2929Directions to our office (opens in a new tab)Office hours & contact detailsBefore you book
Knocked-out tooth questions
Have a question about your situation? Our team can help you plan a visit.
How quickly do I need to see a dentist?
As soon as possible. The best outcomes occur when a permanent tooth is replanted within minutes. If you cannot replant it, store it in milk and seek dental care immediately. Every minute matters for the root cells.
Should I put a baby tooth back in?
No. Replanting a baby tooth can damage the developing adult tooth beneath. Keep the child comfortable, control bleeding and call the office for advice. The dentist will check the area.
Can I rinse the tooth with tap water?
A very brief rinse to remove visible dirt is acceptable, but do not scrub it or soak it in tap water. Milk is a better storage medium. Handle the tooth only by the crown.
Will the replanted tooth survive?
Many replanted teeth can function for years, though outcomes vary. Root canal treatment is often needed, and some teeth are eventually lost. Prompt action and follow-up care give the best chance.
What if I cannot find the tooth?
Contact the office and describe the injury. The tooth may have been swallowed, inhaled or pushed into the gum. X-rays may be needed. If breathing is affected, seek emergency medical care immediately.
Injury care for Peacock Point patients
Dental Emergencies →Dental Trauma Treatment →
A fall on the dock or a blow to the mouth can injure teeth, gums and lips. Peacock Point patients can call our Port Dover office for prompt guidance after dental trauma.
Emergency Dental Care for Children →
A fall on the beach, a sudden toothache or a knocked-out tooth can rattle any family. Peacock Point parents can call our Port Dover office for guidance on urgent child care.