What should be done if someone has a missing tooth?

When dealing with a missing tooth, preserving the tooth's vitality is crucial for the possibility of successful reattachment. Placing the tooth in Hank's balanced salt solution is the most effective way to maintain its viability. This solution is specifically designed to keep cells alive, providing the necessary nutrients and maintaining the right pH balance. This means that if the tooth can be reinserted within a certain time frame, it has a higher chance of being successfully reattached, which could help preserve the natural tooth structure and function.

Other options, while they may seem logical, do not provide the same level of preservation. For instance, putting the tooth in milk can help as a temporary solution because milk contains the right balance of nutrients and proteins that can keep the tooth viable, but it is not as effective as Hank's solution. Keeping the tooth dry is generally harmful as it can lead to cell death, which significantly reduces the chances of reattachment. Wrapping the tooth in gauze might protect it from physical damage but does nothing to preserve the cells necessary for successful reinsertion. Thus, utilizing Hank's balanced salt solution is the best approach for maintaining the tooth’s viability until professional dental help can be obtained.