For permanent teeth
Find the tooth. Handle the tooth by the crown, not root. If the tooth is dirty, gently rinse it in cold water, but DO NOT scrub or handle the root unnecessarily. Try to replace the tooth into the socket. Have the child hold the tooth in place by closing on a gauze pad or washcloth. If it is not possible to replace the tooth, place the tooth in a cup of milk, or if this is not available, cool water. Go to the dentist immediately. Time is important for saving the tooth, less than 30 minutes is the best.
For primary (baby) teeth
Teeth are not re-implanted. The tooth fairy will just have to be at work earlier than scheduled. Control any bleeding by applying pressure with a gauze pad or clean wash cloth. Call your child’s dentist and schedule an exam as soon as possible. It is important to evaluate the health of the surrounding teeth and gums.