Overview of the assessment and management of tooth avulsion

• Check for other injuries, especially head and neck injuries.
• Do not replant primary (baby) teeth.
• Do not scrape or handle the root of the tooth.
• Rinse the tooth with dairy milk or saline if it is dirty—do not use water.
• Replant secondary (adult) teeth as soon as possible.
• Use a temporary splint to hold the replanted tooth in place until the patient can see a dentist.
• Ensure that tetanus immunisation is up-to-date (see Requirement for tetanus prophylaxis).
• Prescribe antibiotic therapy.
• Refer to a dentist urgently.

If the tooth cannot be replanted immediately:

• Do not let the tooth dry out.
• Store the tooth in dairy milk; if milk is not available, store the tooth in saline, saliva or plastic wrap—do not use water.