Smile ArtDr. Jaime Lee, DDSCall Smile Art by Dr. Jaime Lee on (206) 325-7200
A small glass of milk beside a tooth preservation kit on a counter

Knocked-Out Tooth: Emergency Dental Care in Seattle

When an adult tooth is knocked out, time matters. Call Smile Art at (206) 325-7200 right away; Dr. Jaime Lee sees dental injuries for patients of all ages in Suite 1030 of the Cabrini Medical Tower on First Hill.

Call (206) 325-7200

What should I do if a tooth is knocked out?

Follow the American Dental Association's steps below and call the office right away. Baby teeth are handled differently from adult teeth, so tell our team the age of the person who was hurt.

If swelling makes it hard to breathe or swallow, or bleeding will not stop, call 911 or go to an emergency room right away.

What can I do until I see Dr. Lee?

For first-aid steps, we share the American Dental Association's guidance, quoted word for word:

"For a knocked-out permanent or adult tooth, keep it moist at all times. If you can, try placing the tooth back in the socket without touching the root. If that's not possible, place it in between your cheek and gums, in milk, or use a tooth preservation product that has the ADA Seal of Acceptance. Then, get to your dentist's office right away."

"When you have a dental emergency, it's important to visit your dentist or an emergency room as soon as possible."

Source: American Dental Association, MouthHealthy, "Dental Emergencies".

How do teeth get knocked out?

Most knocked-out teeth come from sports, falls, bike and scooter accidents, or a blow to the face. Front teeth are the most often affected. Wearing a mouthguard for contact sports lowers the risk, as the ADA notes.

What happens after a tooth is put back?

A replanted tooth is usually held in place while it heals and checked at follow-up visits, sometimes over several months. Dr. Lee explains what to watch for and when to return, and what the options are if the tooth cannot be kept.

A small glass of milk and a tooth storage kit on a clinic counter

Can a knocked-out tooth be saved?

Sometimes, especially when it is cared for quickly and kept moist. Dr. Lee examines the tooth and the area around it, takes X-rays, and explains what can be done and what follow-up is needed.

Related care: Children's dental care, Dental implants.

How much does an emergency visit cost?

The cost depends on the exam, any X-rays, and the treatment the tooth needs. Smile Art accepts all PPO dental plans, and our team will gladly verify your benefits before your appointment. For out-of-pocket expenses, we offer straightforward financing options through CareCredit, Cherry, and LendingClub.

PPO insurance

Smile Art accepts all PPO insurance.

Contact the office with your plan details to ask about coverage and network participation.

Coverage depends on the treatment provided and your individual PPO plan.

Third-party financing

Available through:

  • CareCredit
  • Cherry
  • LendingClub

Financing is subject to the provider’s approval and terms.

Frequently asked questions

How quickly should I be seen?

Right away. Call (206) 325-7200 as soon as the tooth is knocked out.

What about a knocked-out baby tooth?

Baby teeth are handled differently. Call the office and Dr. Lee will advise you.

Should I scrub the tooth clean?

Follow the ADA steps above and avoid touching the root.

What if the tooth cannot be saved?

Dr. Lee explains the options for replacing it once the area has been treated.

How quickly should I call after a tooth is knocked out?

Right away. The ADA advises getting to a dentist as soon as possible, so call (206) 325-7200 while you follow its steps above.

See all emergency concerns

Where is our Seattle dental office?

Smile Art is at 901 Boren Ave, Suite 1030, Seattle, WA 98104. We welcome new patients from Seattle and the surrounding neighborhoods.

Smile Art by Dr. Jaime Lee901 Boren Ave, Suite 1030
Seattle, WA 98104

HoursMonday–Thursday, 8:00am–4:00pm

The Cabrini Medical Tower garage entrance is at 1010 Marion St. The building entrance is on Boren Ave; Dr. Lee is in Suite 1030. Parking for a Smile Art visit does not require validation. Directions to the garage. Check posted rates when you park.

Call (206) 325-7200