Does Keeping a Tooth in Milk Really Help?

It’s an alarming situation that can happen to anyone at any time: having a tooth knocked out. The good news is that it can be saved by acting quickly and properly. However, if you store your newly dislodged tooth incorrectly, you drastically reduce your chances of successful reattachment. Here’s why experts recommend keeping it in milk and what you should avoid storing it in until you can reach your emergency dentist.

Why Store My Tooth in Milk?

After you locate your knocked-out tooth, carefully pick it up by the crown, and gently rinse it off, you need to store it somewhere safe until you can get to your emergency dentist. While that would ideally be back in its socket, a glass of milk is the next best option. Any kind of cow’s milk will:

• Keep the tooth moist and viable.
• Maintain the tooth’s regular fluid balance.
• Prevent infection with its antibacterial properties.
• Use its natural proteins to balance the pH levels.
• Feed the living cells of the tooth with its sugars.

If the tooth is dry for more than 15 minutes, it’s much less likely to be saved. However, if it’s put in milk within five minutes of being knocked out, the tooth root’s cells can survive for 30-60 minutes.

Can I Keep My Tooth in Water?

You can clean a knocked-out tooth by rinsing it off with water, which will remove any debris or bacteria. However, the tooth should not be stored in water. When the cells from the tooth root’s surface come into contact with water, they will start to swell. Eventually, they could burst and die.

What If I Don’t Have Any Milk?

Unfortunately, teeth don’t always get knocked out close to a refrigerator or grocery store. If you don’t have any milk, saliva can also be used to preserve the tooth. One option is to put the tooth back in your mouth and hold it between your cheek and gums. If you’re concerned about choking on it, put the tooth in a container and spit in it until the tooth is fully covered. While it may seem silly, it’s much better than holding your tooth in your hand or putting it in water.

While having a tooth knocked out is an overwhelming experience, a few simple steps can go a long way to improve your chances of reattachment. With quick action, proper storage, and a visit to your local emergency dentist, you should be able to regain your beautiful and fully intact smile!

About the Author

If you experience a dental emergency like a knocked-out tooth in Pantego, TX, South Arlington Dental Care is here to help. Dr. Prachi Shah offers convenient evening and early morning appointments as well as 24/7 phone service to be there for you whenever a dental emergency strikes. Once at the office, she’ll use the latest dental technologies and techniques to help you regain your smile. If you’d like to learn more, she can be contacted through her website or at (817) 860-2222.