Knocked-out Tooth
Keep the tooth moist at all times. Hold the tooth by the crown, and if it is dirty, gently rinse the root in water. Do not scrub or remove any attached tissue fragments. If possible, gently insert and hold the tooth in its socket. If it cannot be replaced in the socket, put it in one of the following:
- Emergency tooth preservation kit
- Milk
- Mouth (next to cheek)
- If none of these is practical, use water (with a pinch of salt if possible).
Call the dentist immediately; we will want to see you right away. It is possible to save the tooth if it is re-implanted and bonded to the adjacent teeth within an hour or so. Baby teeth that have been knocked out typically are not replaced because of the potential damage to developing permanent teeth. ‡
Possible Broken Jaw
Apply cold compress to control swelling. Go to the hospital emergency room immediately. ‡
Cracked or Broken Tooth
Rinse the mouth with warm water to clean the area. Put cold compresses on the face to keep any swelling down. Call the dentist. ‡
Lost Filling
Call the dentist to schedule an appointment. If there is sensitivity and you need temporary relief, you can purchase a temporary filling material at the drugstore or you can place some unscented candle wax in the area to protect it. ‡
Cut or Bitten Tongue, Lip or Cheek
Clean the area gently with a clean cloth, and put cold compresses on the area to keep the swelling down. If bleeding is excessive or does not stop in a short period of time, call your dentist or go to the hospital. ‡
Toothache
Rinse the mouth with warm water to clean it. Gently use dental floss to remove any food caught between the teeth. Do not put aspirin on the aching tooth or gum tissue; take any oral pain relievers orally only. Call to schedule an appointment as soon as possible. ‡
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