For an avulsed tooth, what is the recommended immediate action if the tooth can be replanted?

• A. Reimplant the tooth into its socket after rinsing with water.
• B. Store the tooth in milk for storage.
• C. Place the tooth in the cheek to keep moist.
• D. Rinse the tooth with alcohol before reimplantation.

Answer: (A)

Immediate reimplantation into the socket after gently rinsing the tooth is the best action when a tooth is avulsed and can be replanted. Replacing the tooth promptly helps preserve the periodontal ligament cells on the root surface, which are essential for reattachment and healing. Avoid exposing the tooth to alcohol, which damages the tissues. If the tooth is dirty, rinse with clean water or saline rather than scrubbing. If you cannot replant right away, store the tooth in a suitable medium such as milk to keep the cells viable until reimplantation. Placing the tooth in the cheek is not recommended due to contamination and drying risks.