Dental Information Center

Dental Emergencies

Toothache: Clean the area of the affected tooth thoroughly. Rinse the mouth vigorously with warm water or use dental floss to dislodge impacted food or debris. If the pain still exists, contact our office. We will be willing to see your child the same day for an emergency evaluation.

DO NOT place aspirin on the gum or on the aching tooth. Topical pain relievers are often not effective. Instead, give your child an appropriate dose of children’s Tylenol or Motrin (follow dose information on the packaging). If the face is swollen apply cold compresses and contact our office immediately.

Cut or Bitten Tongue, Lip or Cheek: Apply ice to bruised area and firm but gentle pressure with a cloth to any areas of bleeding. If bleeding does not stop after 15 minutes or it cannot be controlled by simple pressure, take the child to hospital emergency room.

Knocked Out Permanent Tooth: Find the tooth. Pick up the tooth only by the crown, not the root portion. You may rinse the tooth with water but DO NOT clean scrape or handle the tooth unnecessarily. Inspect the tooth for fractures. If it is sound, try to reinsert it in the socket. Have the patient hold the tooth in place by biting on a cloth. If you cannot reinsert the tooth, transport the tooth in a cup containing milk. If the patient is old enough, the tooth may also be carried in the patient’s mouth. The patient must see a dentist IMMEDIATELY! Time is a critical factor in saving the tooth.

Displaced or Loose Teeth Following Trauma (a fall or blow): Teeth that have been hit, dislodged or displaced need to be evaluated and treated as soon as possible. Stop any bleeding with firm but gentle pressure and call our office immediately.

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