A caregiver calls with an avulsed permanent tooth. What do you say first?
Screen for major medical injury, then replant promptly if safe and feasible and obtain immediate dental care.
- Handle the crown; gently rinse with milk, saline, or saliva without touching the root.
- If replantation is not feasible, use milk, HBSS, saliva in a container, or saline; do not let the root dry.
- Medical concerns such as loss of consciousness take priority.
- Never replant a primary tooth; immediate dental review is needed even after successful replantation.