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HealthInfo West Coast-Te Tai Poutini

Knocked-out teeth

Niho kua mekea atu

When an accident happens, teeth can be broken or completely knocked out of their sockets. The risk of permanent damage to teeth can be reduced by wearing a mouthguard for certain sports.

In some cases, a dentist may be able to save the tooth if you follow these steps:

If you aren't comfortable putting the tooth back in:

Please remember this advice is only for managing knocked-out permanent teeth. If a baby tooth is knocked out, do not try to put it back in its socket, as this may damage the permanent teeth.

Always seek advice and treatment from a dentist.

ACC covers most or all the cost of many accidental or sporting dental injuries for people of all ages.

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Written by HealthInfo clinical advisers. Last reviewed March 2022.

Page reference: 74954

Review key: HICPA-75368