Emergencies
For life-threatening emergencies, call 911 immediately. For dental emergencies requiring immediate care, call the office to arrange an appointment or speak with the on-call doctor.
Knocked Out Tooth
For a permanent tooth: Hold the tooth by the crown, and rinse the root with water if it is dirty. Do not wipe the tooth or remove any attached tissue fragments. If possible, gently insert and hold the tooth in its socket with a clean washcloth or gauze. If this is not possible, put the tooth in a container with milk, saliva or water. See the dentist as quickly as you can.
For a primary tooth: Baby teeth cannot be re-implanted because of potential damage to the developing permanent tooth. However, call the office immediately. Instructions will vary depending on the age of the child, area of tooth loss, soft tissue involvement and the nature of the accident.
Chipped or Broken Tooth
Rinse the mouth with warm water to keep the area clean. Put cold compresses on the face to reduce swelling. Call the office to schedule a visit as soon as possible. If you can find the broken tooth fragment, bring it with you.
Bitten Tongue or Lip
Clean the area gently with a cloth and place cold compresses on the area to keep swelling down. If bleeding is excessive or doesn’t stop after a short period of time, call the office, pediatrician or hospital emergency room.
Toothache
Rinse the mouth with warm water to clean it out. Use dental floss to remove any food that may be trapped between the teeth. Do not put aspirin on the aching tooth or gum tissue. Call the office to schedule an appointment.