Emergency Information

Begin by cleaning around the sore tooth thoroughly. Using warm salt water, rinse the mouth to help displace any food trapped between teeth. Under no circumstances should you use aspirin on the aching tooth or on the gums. In the event of facial swelling, apply a cold compress to the area. For temporary pain relief, acetaminophen is recommended. Contact our office as soon as possible.

Ice can be applied to any bruised areas to help reduce swelling. For bleeding, apply firm but gentle pressure with sterile gauze or a clean cloth. If the bleeding does not stop with pressure or continues after 15 minutes, go to an emergency room.

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 not usually required for loose or broken appliances that cause no discomfort.

Time is critical. Pick up the tooth by the crown (the top) — do not touch the root. Rinse it gently, but do not clean or handle it more than necessary. Reinsert the tooth into the socket and hold it in place with clean gauze or a clean cloth. If the tooth cannot be reinserted, place it in a cup containing milk or water and get to a dentist immediately. The sooner you act, the better the chances of saving the tooth.

Fold a piece of gauze and place it firmly over the bleeding area. Have your child bite down on the gauze for 15 minutes. If bleeding continues, contact our office immediately.

Over-the-counter medications will usually provide temporary relief. If sores persist or are causing significant discomfort, contact our office for guidance.