What is the most critical first aid step when a permanent tooth is completely knocked out (avulsed) in the dental office or an accident site?
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Correct answer: Hold it by the crown and reinsert it into the socket at once
The best chance to save an avulsed permanent tooth is to pick it up by the crown (not the root) and attempt to reinsert it into the socket immediately — this preserves periodontal ligament cells and improves prognosis.
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More Dental and Oral Tissue Trauma questions
- If immediate re-implantation of an avulsed tooth is not possible, what is the recommended storage medium until reaching a dentist?
- Within what time frame should an avulsed permanent tooth ideally be replanted to maximize the chance of long-term survival?
- Which of the following actions should NOT be done when handling an avulsed tooth before re-implantation?
- What is the recommended immediate management for a tooth that is partially displaced (extruded) but still in the socket after trauma?
- How should soft tissue injuries (lacerations of lips, cheeks, gingiva) in the oral cavity generally be managed initially after trauma?
- Which type of knocked-out tooth should NEVER be replanted under normal circumstances?