Handling a dental emergency can be tricky when you or a loved one is in pain, but a quick and appropriate
reaction can help save a tooth in danger. It is good to become familiar with these dental emergency procedures
just in case you ever have a dental emergency
KNOCKED OUT TOOTH
– hold the tooth by the crown and rinse the root in water if it’s dirty. Do NOT scrub it or remove any attached
tissue fragments. If you can, gently place the tooth back in its socket or store it in a cup of milk and head for the
dentist (with the tooth) immediately
BROKEN TOOTH
– rinse your mouth with warm water to keep the area clean and apply cold compresses on your face to reduce
swelling. Go to the dentist immediately
BITTEN TONGUE OR LIP
– clean gently with a cloth and applying cold compresses to reduce swelling. If bleeding is heavy or doesn’t stop
after a short time, seek immediate treatment from your dentist or emergency room
TOOTHACHE
– rinse your mouth with warm water, gently floss to remove food that may be trapped around it and see your
dentist as soon as possible. Do NOT apply aspirin to the tooth or gum tissues
JAW INJURY
– needs immediate attention at your dentist’s office or the emergency room. Apply cold compresses on the way to
reduce swelling
BRACES – SHARP WIRE
– cover the wire end with a small cotton ball, beeswax or a piece of gauze until you can get to the dentist. Seek
immediate treatment if a wire gets stuck in the cheek, tongue or gum tissue, but don’t try to pull it out yourself