
My Child Hurt a Tooth: What to Do Right Now
My child hurt a tooth. That thought can send any parent into a panic. A fall, a bump, or a bite into something hard can turn a calm afternoon into a scramble. You need clear steps, and you need them fast. This guide walks you through what to do in the first minutes, how to ease the pain, and when to call a dentist. Key Takeaways Act within the hour. A knocked-out permanent tooth has the best chance of survival if you place it back within 15 minutes, up to about one hour. Know the tooth type. Never push a baby tooth back in. Reinsert only permanent teeth. Handle by the crown. Pick up a knocked-out tooth by the white top. Store it in milk if you cannot put it back. Ease pain at home. Rinse with warm salt water, apply a cold compress, and give an age-appropriate dose of children’s pain reliever. Skip aspirin. Never give aspirin to a child or place it on the gums. Call fast. Book an emergency dentist visit for heavy bleeding, swelling, fever, or a loose or pushed tooth. What Should You Do First When Your Child Hurts a Tooth? When your child hurts








