Dental Emergency Situations
Toothache
Clean the area around the sore tooth thoroughly. Rinse the mouth vigorously with warm salt water or use dental floss to dislodge impacted food or debris. DO NOT place aspirin on the gum or on the aching tooth. If the face is swollen, apply a cold compress. Take Tylenol, Motrin or Advil for pain and see a dentist as soon as possible.
Cut or Bitten Tongue, Lip or Cheek
Apply ice to bruised areas. If there is bleeding apply firm but gentle pressure with a gauze or cloth. If bleeding does not stop after 15 minutes or it cannot be controlled by simple pressure, take the child to the hospital emergency room.
Knocked-Out Permanent Tooth
Find the tooth. Handle the tooth by the crown, not the root portion. You may rinse the tooth but DO NOT clean or handle the tooth unnecessarily. Inspect the tooth for fractures. If it is sound try to replace it in its socket AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. Have the child hold the tooth in place by biting on a gauze. If you cannot replace the tooth, transport the tooth in a cup containing milk or wrap it in plastic with the child's saliva to maintain moisture. The tooth may also be carried in the patient's mouth. The patient must see a dentist IMMEDIATELY! Time is a critical factor in saving the tooth.
Broken Braces or Wires
If a broken appliance can be removed easily, take it out. If it cannot, cover the sharp, protruding portion with ortho wax. Contact the dental office. Loose or broken appliances which do not bother the child do not usually require emergency attention.
Broken Tooth
Rinse dirt from the injured area with warm water. Place cold compresses over the area of the injury. Locate and save any broken tooth fragments. Contact the dental office.
Other Emergency Conditions
Possible Broken Jaw
If a fractured jaw is suspected, try to keep the jaws from moving by using a towel, tie or handkerchief, then take the child to the nearest hospital emergency room.
Bleeding after Baby Tooth Falls Out
Fold and pack a clean gauze or cloth over the bleeding area. Have the child bite on the gauze with pressure for 15 minutes. This may be repeated once: If bleeding persists, see a dentist.
Cold Sores & Canker Sores
Many children occasionally suffer from cold or canker sores. Usually over the counter preparations give relief. Because some serious diseases may begin as sores it is important to have a dental evaluation if these sores persist.
