Dental Emergencies

NOTE: These articles are for general information only and are not meant to be professional advice that you should act on without prior, personal consultation with your dentist or another qualified health professional.

Here are some things you should know that may someday save a tooth - yours or someone else's. And if a dental emergency does arise, you should call our office immediately.

TOOTHACHE:

Rinse the mouth with warm water to clean it out. Use dental floss to remove any food that might be trapped between the teeth. Do NOT place aspirin on the aching tooth or gum tissues. See us as soon as possible.

KNOCKED-OUT TOOTH:

If the tooth is dirty, rinse it gently with running water. Do not scrub it or remove any attached tissue fragments. Gently insert and hold the tooth in its socket. If this is not possible, place the tooth in a cup of milk, or when the milk is not available, in a cup of cool water. Come immediately to our office (within 30 minutes if possible). Remember to bring the tooth!

BROKEN TOOTH:

Gently clean dirt from the injured area with warm water. Place cold compresses on the face, in the area of the injured tooth to decrease swelling. Come to the office immediately for treatment.

BITTEN TONGUE OF LIP:

Apply direct pressure to the bleeding area with a clean cloth. If swelling is present, apply cold compresses. If bleeding does not stop, go to a hospital emergency room.

OBJECTS CAUGHT BETWEEN THE TEETH:

Try to remove the object with floss. Guide the floss carefully to avoid cutting the gums. If you're not successful in removing the object, come in to our office. Do no try to remove the object with a sharp or pointed instrument.

POSSIBLE BROKEN JAW:

Do not move the jaw. Secure the jaw in place by tying a handkerchief, necktie, or towel around the jaw and over the top of the head. If swelling is present, apply cold compresses. Go immediately to a hospital emergency room.

Warning Signs of Gum Disease:

• Bleeding gums

• Red, swollen and tender gums

• Gums that have pulled away from your teeth

• Persistent bad breath

• Loose teeth

• Changes in your "bite"

• Changes in the fit of your dentures

If you notice any of the above warning signs, STOP and call our office today!