Sports Injury 101: What to Do When a Tooth Is Knocked Out During Sport

A knocked-out tooth during sport is a dental emergency that requires immediate action. Knowing what to do in the first few minutes can make the difference between saving or losing a tooth.

Imagine the chaos of a game suddenly halted by a child’s knocked-out tooth.

It’s one of those moments that seems to happen in slow motion – a hard hit, a tumble to the ground, and suddenly, there's a gap where a tooth used to be. Panic sets in.

What to Do If a Tooth Is Knocked Out During Sport

While we hope you never face this scenario, knowing the right steps can make all the difference.

Here’s what you need to do:

Step 1: Stay Calm

First, take a deep breath. Your calmness will help keep the player calm.

Step 2: Handle the Tooth Properly

Locate the tooth and pick it up carefully by the crown (the white part). Avoid touching the root, as it’s delicate and needs to stay clean. If the tooth has dirt on it, give it a quick rinse under cold water for no more than 10 seconds.

Step 3: Try to Reinsert the Tooth

If it’s an adult tooth, your next best bet is to try and put it back into the socket. Gently push it into the hole, making sure it’s facing the right way. If it goes back in, have the player bite down softly on a clean cloth to hold it in place.

If reinsertion isn’t possible, don’t worry! Store the tooth in a container of milk or the player’s saliva (they can spit into a cup). This keeps the tooth alive until you can get to the dentist.

Step 4: Get to a Dentist Immediately

Time is of the essence! Whether the tooth is in place or stored safely in milk, the key is getting to the dentist as quickly as possible. The faster you act, the better the chance of saving the tooth. Always follow the advice of a qualified dental professional.

What to Do If a Baby Tooth Is Knocked Out

If the knocked-out tooth is a baby tooth, do not try to put it back in. It could damage the permanent tooth growing underneath. Unsure if it’s an adult or baby tooth? If in doubt, store it in milk or saliva and head to the dentist for expert advice.

Guidance adapted from NHS advice on knocked-out teeth. 

While knowing how to respond to a dental emergency is essential, preventing injuries in the first place is even more important. Understanding why mouthguards are essential in contact sports helps reduce dental injury risk. Properly fitted gumshields significantly reduce the risk of teeth being knocked out during sport, particularly in contact activities such as rugby, football, and hockey.

Game Guard UKCA & CE-approved gumshields support school and club safety standards.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do you have to save a knocked-out tooth?

Ideally, within 30–60 minutes. The faster you act, the better the chance of saving the tooth.

Should you put a knocked-out tooth in water?

No. Milk or saliva is best. Water can damage the tooth root.

Can a knocked-out baby tooth be put back in?

No. Re-inserting baby teeth can damage the adult tooth underneath.

Do gumshields really prevent knocked-out teeth?

Yes. While no gumshield eliminates risk entirely, wearing one significantly reduces the likelihood and severity of dental injuries.

Be prepared. Protect their smile.

Explore our range of kids’ gumshields designed to reduce the risk of dental injuries during sport.

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