Tooth Displacement or Tooth Loss
Dental trauma: luxation
What it is
An impact may loosen a tooth or move it out of position in the mouth. Complete tooth loss occurs when a tooth comes entirely out of its socket.
Related sheet available: Broken Tooth
What you can do at home
What to do
- To relieve pain, take acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil). When in doubt, ask a pharmacist for advice.
Important: Ibuprofen is contraindicated for children under 6 months of age.
In the event of the tooth coming out of its socket
- Stop the bleeding by gently biting down on gauze or a clean cloth.
- Hold the tooth by the crown, the visible part. Do not touch the root.
- If the tooth is dirty, gently rinse it with water or milk. Do not scrub it.
- Primary or baby tooth: Do not put the tooth back in place.
Permanent or adult tooth
- If possible, put the tooth back in place immediately.
- Gently bite down on gauze or a clean cloth to hold it in place.
- Do not reinsert the tooth if it is difficult or very painful.
- If the tooth cannot be put back in place, keep it in milk or saliva. Do not let it dry out.
- If unsure whether the tooth is primary or permanent, quickly place it in milk or saliva to keep it moist.
- If you have a particular health condition, call Info-Santé or consult a healthcare professional before putting the tooth back in place.
If the tooth is displaced but remains in its socket
- Do not reposition a tooth that has been pushed inward.
- Gently try to reposition a tooth that has moved slightly outward, forward, backward, or sideways.
- Gently bite down on a clean cloth to hold the tooth in place.
If no teeth have been displaced following a mouth injury
- Eat soft foods, such as puréed foods, applesauce, yogurt, pudding, or shredded/ground meat.
- If needed, see the Toothache health advice sheet.
To prevent injuries
- Wear a mouthguard for certain contact sports, such as hockey, football, or karate.
À éviter
- Do not touch the root of a tooth that has come out of its socket.
- Do not allow a permanent tooth that has come out of its socket to dry out.
When to seek medical attention
A primary (baby) tooth has come out of its socket and did not fall out naturally
A tooth has been displaced
A tooth changes colour, often becoming grey
Tooth pain that does not improve within 3 days (72 hours) after an impact, even if the tooth has not shifted or come out of its socket
Facial swelling and worsening pain despite following the recommended advice
Need help?
See your dentist.
Call Info-Santé at 811, Option 1, to speak with a nurse at any time.
Go to the pharmacy for advice on medications or treatment.
Make an appointment at your medical clinic or CLSC.
If you do not have a family doctor, go to gap.soinsvirtuels or call 811, Option 3.
When to go to the hospital right away
A permanent tooth has come completely out of its socket
Severe pain despite following the recommended advice