What should be done with a tooth fragment recovered after fracture?

What should be done with a tooth fragment recovered after fracture?

• A. Place fragment in liquid such as water, saline, or milk and send with the athlete to the dentist
• B. Discard fragment
• C. Keep fragment in pocket for later disposal
• D. Wrap fragment in tissue and carry separately

Answer: (A)

When a tooth fragment is recovered, the best move is to keep it moist and bring it to the dentist. Placing the fragment in a small amount of liquid—such as milk, saline, or clean water—and sending it with the athlete helps preserve the fragment and any surface cells, reducing drying and contamination. This preservation maximizes the chances that the fragment can be reattached or properly restored. Storing the piece in a pocket or wrapping it in tissue risks drying, contamination, and loss, making future dental repair more difficult. Discarding the fragment eliminates the possibility of reattachment or accurate restoration. So, moist storage and prompt dental evaluation offer the best outcome.

When a tooth fragment is recovered, the best move is to keep it moist and bring it to the dentist. Placing the fragment in a small amount of liquid—such as milk, saline, or clean water—and sending it with the athlete helps preserve the fragment and any surface cells, reducing drying and contamination. This preservation maximizes the chances that the fragment can be reattached or properly restored. Storing the piece in a pocket or wrapping it in tissue risks drying, contamination, and loss, making future dental repair more difficult. Discarding the fragment eliminates the possibility of reattachment or accurate restoration. So, moist storage and prompt dental evaluation offer the best outcome.