Emergency Info
Tooth Ache
Begin by cleaning around the sore tooth meticulously. Using warm salt water, rinse the mouth to displace any food trapped between teeth. Under no circumstances should you place an aspirin on the aching tooth or on the gum. In the event of facial swelling, apply a cold compress to the area. For temporary pain relief, acetaminophen (Tylenol) or Ibuprofen (Advil) is recommended. Please contact us for an appointment if the pain persists more than a day. In the case of facial swelling, contact our office immediately, or visit a hospital emergency room.
Cut or Bitten Tongue, Lip or Cheek
Ice can be applied to any bruised areas. For bleeding, apply firm (but comfortable) pressure with sterile gauze or a clean cloth. If the bleeding does not stop with pressure or continues after 15 minutes, a visit to a hospital emergency room may be necessary.
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, gauze or chewing gum. Do not remove any wire caught in the gums, cheek or tongue. See a dentist immediately. Emergency attention is usually not required for loose or broken appliances that cause no discomfort.
Broken Tooth
Rinse the area with warm water. Put a cold compress over the facial area of the injury. Recover any broken tooth fragments. Seek immediate dental attention.
Avulsed (Knocked Out) Permanent Tooth
Recover the tooth, making sure to hold it by the crown (top) and not the root. Rinse, but do not clean or handle the tooth root more than necessary. If possible, 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 or water. Because time is essential, see a dentist immediately.
Possible Fractured Jaw
In the event of jaw injury, hold your head still and try to stabilize your jaws as best you can. It may be necessary to tie the mouth closed with a towel, tie or handkerchief. Go immediately to a hospital 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, contact our office.
Cold or Canker Sores
Over-the-counter medications will usually provide temporary pain relief. If sores persist, contact our office.