Clarendon Family Dentistry
Brigid B. Mooney, DDS
A woman with a chipped tooth talking to her dentist

What To Do if You Chip or Knock Out a Tooth

May 30, 2025
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A shocked woman covering her mouth

Dental emergencies are scary, especially if you knock out a tooth! Whether you've chipped a tooth or completely dislodged it, your team at Clarendon Family Dentistry is here for you. You can contact our team at (703) 522-8894 in the event of a tooth emergency, and we'll make every effort to see you or your loved one promptly and provide same-day care whenever possible.

Understanding what to do during a dental emergency will also help take some of the stress out of the situation, so here's what you should know. 

Handling Tooth Emergencies

Knocked-Out Teeth

If you or a loved one knocks out a tooth, this may seem to be the right time to panic; however, staying calm will help you think clearly and act quickly, which is what this situation calls for. We have the best chance of saving a knocked-out tooth the quicker we can treat it, so give your emergency dentist in Arlington a call right away. 

Transporting the tooth carefully is critical, so be sure to handle it with care, being careful not to touch the roots, only the crown of the tooth. It's ideal if you can place the tooth back into its socket; if not, use milk or saliva to keep the roots and their cells moist while you transport the tooth to your dentist. 

Chipped Teeth

A chipped tooth may not require immediate attention, but eventually, we'll need to smooth or repair it to prevent further damage or discomfort to your cheeks and soft tissues. Contact our dental office so we can assess your condition over the phone and determine if you need immediate treatment or a future appointment.

Contact Clarendon Family Dentistry 

If you or a loved one is experiencing a dental emergency in Arlington, VA, don't wait to contact our team at (703) 522-8894 for prompt emergency dental care. 

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