Dental Emergencies

• Toothache
  Begin by cleaning around the sore tooth meticulously. Using warm saltwater, rinse the mouth to displace any food trapped between teeth. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES should you use aspirin on the aching tooth or on the gum. For temporary pain relief, acetaminophen is recommended. In the event of facial swelling, contact your pediatric dentist who may recommend you to go to the emergency room.

• Cut or Bitten Tongue, Lip or Cheek
  Ice can be applied to any bruised areas. For bleeding, apply firm pressure with sterile gauze or a clean cloth. If the bleeding does not stop with pressure or continues after 15 minutes, contact your pediatric dentist or go to an emergency room.

• Broken Braces and Wires
  Remove a broken appliance only if it comes out easily. If it is lodged or painful to remove, cover any protruding edges with wax, cotton balls, or gauze. DO NOT REMOVE any wire caught in the gums, cheek or tongue; see a dentist immediately.

• Broken Tooth
  Rinse the area with warm water. Put a cold compress over the facial area of the injury. Recover any broken tooth fragments. Get immediate dental attention.

• Knocked-Out Permanent Tooth
  Recover the tooth, making sure to hold it by the crown (top) and not the root end. Do not clean or handle the tooth more than necessary. Reinsert the tooth in the socket and hold it in place using a clean piece of gauze or cloth. If the tooth cannot be reinserted, carry it in a cup containing milk (skim or low-fat preferred). If milk is not available, place the tooth in human saliva. Because time is essential, see a dentist immediately.

• Possible Broken Jaw
  Go immediately to an emergency room.

• Bleeding After a Baby Tooth Falls Out
  Fold a piece of gauze and place it (tightly) over the bleeding area. Bite down on the gauze for 15 minutes; if bleeding continues, see a dentist.

• Cold or Canker Sores
  Over-the-counter medications will usually provide temporary relief. If sores persist, visit your dentist.

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