Colbert Family Dental
Mackenzie Colbert D.D.S.

What to Do If You Knock Out or Chip a Tooth? Immediate Steps & When to Call Colbert Family Dental

December 15, 2025
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Dental accidents, such as a chipped or knocked-out adult tooth, can occur quickly and unexpectedly. Whether due to a fall, an impact during sports, or a poorly timed bite, knowing what to do in these sudden, unnerving moments can make all the difference in saving your tooth. Act decisively and correctly, and you’ll dramatically improve the chances of a quick and reasonably painless recovery.

At Colbert Family Dental, Dr. Mackenzie Colbert and our team are here to provide prompt, compassionate emergency dental care in Maple Grove, MN. Better yet, we also aim to provide guidance and preventive care to ensure it’s not needed in the first place!

What to Do If a Tooth Is Knocked Out

A knocked-out tooth is a true dental emergency. If possible, gently pick up the tooth by the upper crown (not the root) and rinse it briefly (without scrubbing) with water. Try to place it back in its socket in the jaw. If that’s not possible, store it in milk or saliva to keep it moist, then immediately call an emergency dentist in Maple Grove, MN. While it’s vital to stay calm, time is critical throughout this process, as treatment within an hour significantly increases the chances of saving the tooth.

Chip Tooth Emergency: What to Do Right Away

A chipped or cracked tooth may not hurt immediately, but it still requires prompt attention. Even small chips can expose inner tooth layers, increasing the risk of infection or further damage. As soon as possible afterward, rinse with warm water, apply an ice pack to the outside of the cheek to reduce swelling, avoid chewing on that side, and contact a dentist immediately. Emergency dental care in Maple Grove, MN, helps ensure the tooth is stabilized correctly and restored.

When to Call Colbert Family Dental

If you experience pain, bleeding, sensitivity, or visible damage, it’s time to call. When you come in, Dr. Colbert will evaluate the extent of the injury and recommend an appropriate treatment. Depending on severity, this may mean dental bonding, a crown, or other restorative care. Quick action often means simpler, more affordable solutions.

Gentle, Reliable Emergency Dental Care in Maple Grove, MN

If you’re in Maple Grove and need help with a chipped or knocked-out tooth, or any other dental emergency, contact Dr. Mackenzie Colbert and the caring Colbert Family Dental team for fast, expert emergency care.

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