A permanent tooth knocked out can sometimes be saved.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Not sure
• D. It depends

Answer: (A)

A permanent tooth knocked out can be saved when action is quick and correct. In dental avulsion, the goal is to keep the tooth’s root surface viable and to replace it into the socket as soon as possible, or to store it in a suitable medium until a dental professional can replant it. If you can handle the tooth by the crown, rinse it gently if dirty, avoid scrubbing or removing tissue, and reinsert it into the socket right away, having the person bite down gently to hold it in place. If immediate replantation isn’t possible, store the tooth in milk, saline, or the person’s saliva in a clean container and get to a dentist promptly—ideally within 30 minutes to an hour. The prognosis improves with shorter time out of the mouth and proper handling. While not every avulsion can be saved, there are real chances of saving a permanent tooth when these steps are followed.