Dental Emergencies
Injury to a baby tooth
An injured baby tooth should be checked, but never re-implant one if knocked out.
Common in
Toddlers
Action
Get it checked
Re-implant
Never
Watch for
Darkening, swelling
Overview
Toddlers often knock or chip a baby tooth while learning to walk and play. The tooth may be loose, pushed, chipped or knocked out.
Most injuries are minor, but a check protects the adult tooth forming underneath. Never push a knocked-out baby tooth back in.
What to know
- Common in young, active children
- Have the tooth checked by a dentist
- Never re-implant a knocked-out baby tooth
- Watch for darkening or swelling later
Caring for it
- Stay calm and comfort your child.
- Rinse the mouth gently with water to see the injury.
- Use a cold pack or cool damp cloth on the lip or cheek for swelling.
- If a baby tooth is knocked out, do not try to put it back in.
- Offer soft foods and keep the area clean.
- Give children's pain relief if needed, following the label for their age.
- Book a dental check, even if the injury looks minor.
Call your dentist if…
- Seek urgent care if there is heavy bleeding, a tooth is pushed into the gum, or your child has a deep cut, ongoing pain or swelling.
Common questions
Should I put a knocked-out baby tooth back?
No. Re-implanting a baby tooth can damage the adult tooth growing beneath it.
The tooth has gone grey. Is that bad?
A darkening baby tooth should be checked, though it does not always need treatment.
Does a wobbly baby tooth need treatment?
Often it settles, but your dentist should check how loose it is.
Will this harm the adult tooth?
Usually not, but a check helps spot any rare effect on the developing tooth.
Related topics
Knocked-out (avulsed) tooth
A knocked-out adult tooth is an emergency; act fast to save it.
Chipped or broken tooth
A chipped or broken tooth should be seen soon, even if it does not hurt.
Teething
Teething is the normal, temporary discomfort as baby teeth come through.
Your child's first visit
An early, friendly first visit helps your child feel at ease at the dentist.
Dr Rick Iskandar · Reviewed June 2026