It is important to work quickly and efficiently when administering first aid for a knocked-out tooth. If you can save the tooth take care to gently replace it; if that is not possible and it can't be reinserted into the socket store the tooth in the patient's saliva or in milk and seek the advice of a dentist as soon as you can.

When replacing a tooth that has been knocked out follow these clear steps:

1. Clean the tooth well and if possible with sterile saline solution.

2. Replace the tooth back in the open socket where it came from.

3. Hold it in place; if it won't stay in place wrap it in a plastic covering or store in milk and get to a dentist.

4. Shape some aluminum foil over the tooth (if in mouth) and cover the neighboring teeth on either side.

5. Get the patient to gently bite down on the foil.

6. In a case where the tooth has been contaminated with dirt or soil it is a good idea for the patient to get a tetanus injection.

7. Seek out a dentist as quickly as you can.

Where there are extensive facial wounds when a tooth has been knocked out make sure to clear the airway of the wounded person; if possible get the injured person to rinse out their mouth and spit out any blood. Make sure that the tongue is not impeding the tooth socket and cover the socket with a firm gauze pad. Get the patient to bite firmly on the gauze and always seek medical or dental advice if any bleeding continues.

Keep an eye out for any signs of concussion in anyone who has received a blow to their head and keep them company until any needed professional advice is sought.

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