Knocked-Out Tooth Emergency in Manhattan
A knocked-out tooth — also called dental avulsion — is one of the most urgent dental emergencies. Whether caused by a sports injury, accident, or sudden impact, fast action can mean the difference between saving and losing the tooth. At Upper West Side Dental, we provide same-day emergency care to give you the best chance of restoring your natural smile.
Why Acting Quickly Matters
The first 30 minutes to 1 hour after a tooth is knocked out are critical. During this window, the tooth has the highest chance of being successfully reimplanted. Delaying treatment significantly reduces the likelihood of saving the tooth.
What to Do If a Tooth Is Knocked Out
- Find the tooth immediately – Hold it by the crown (the white top part), not the root.
- Rinse gently if dirty – Use water or saline; do not scrub or use soap.
- Try to reinsert the tooth – If possible, carefully place it back in the socket and have the patient bite gently on gauze.
- If reinsertion isn’t possible – Keep the tooth moist by placing it in milk, saline, or inside the cheek (for older children/adults only). Never let it dry out.
- Call Upper West Side Dental right away – The sooner you arrive, the better the chances of saving the tooth.
How Upper West Side Dental Treats Knocked-Out Teeth
During your emergency visit, Dr. Benjamin Shirley will carefully examine the injured area and take digital X-rays if needed. Depending on the situation, treatment may include:
- Reimplantation of the tooth if done quickly and conditions are favorable
- Splinting the tooth to adjacent teeth to help it heal and stabilize
- Root canal therapy if the pulp has been damaged
- Replacement options (dental implant, bridge, or partial denture) if the tooth cannot be saved
Special Considerations for Children
If a baby tooth is knocked out, it is usually not reimplanted, as this could affect the permanent tooth developing underneath. However, emergency evaluation is still important to prevent infection, manage pain, and protect surrounding teeth. For permanent teeth in children, quick action is essential — reinsertion within the first hour offers the best chance of success.
FAQs About Knocked-Out Teeth
Yes, but time is critical. Teeth reimplanted within 30–60 minutes have the best chance of survival
We can still treat the area and recommend replacement options, such as implants or bridges.
Only for permanent teeth. Baby teeth should not be reinserted.
In milk, saline solution, or inside the cheek (for older children/adults). Do not wrap it in tissue or let it dry out.
Don’t Wait — Get Emergency Dental Care Now
Every minute counts when dealing with a knocked-out tooth. Quick action gives you the best chance of saving your natural tooth.
📞 Call (917) 261-7555 or Book an Emergency Appointment Online immediately for urgent care at Upper West Side Dental.
Serving patients in the Upper West Side, Harlem, and Morningside Heights with trusted, same-day emergency dental services.