When dental emergencies happen, it’s important to stay calm and take quick action. Even in the most alarming cases—like a knocked-out or loosened tooth—the tooth can often be saved if it is treated within one hour of the injury. Read on to learn what to do in some of the most common dental emergencies.
What if my tooth is knocked out?
- Don’t touch the root of the tooth (the part that is normally below the gumline). Handle it by the crown (the exposed part of the tooth). Touching the root can damage it and make it more difficult to reattach.
- Rinse the tooth in milk if possible or clean water, but don’t scrub it or rub it with a rag or shirt hem.
- Don’t let the tooth dry out. If possible, place it back in the socket to keep it moist. If that is not possible, place it in the mouth between the cheek and gum, or immerse it in a cup of milk.
- Visit us immediately.
What if my tooth is loosened or forced out of position?
- Try to gently push the tooth back into its normal alignment, but don’t force it into place.
- If you are able to get the tooth back in place, bite down gently to keep it from moving.
- Visit us immediately.
What if my tooth is fractured or chipped?
- Rinse with warm water to clean the area.
- Use a cold compress or ice pack to reduce swelling.
- Don’t use aspirin for pain; it is an anticoagulant and may cause excessive bleeding. Use ibuprofen instead.
- Visit us as soon as possible and ask about your options. It may cosmetically corrected.
What if I’ve lost a filling or crown?
- Usually this is not an emergency, though it can be painful because the exposed tooth is often sensitive.
- If you have lost a crown, put it in a safe place.
- Make an appointment to see us as soon as possible.
What if I have injured mouth tissue (such as puncture wounds or lacerations to my cheeks, lips, or tongue)?
- Clean the wound with warm water.
- Apply pressure to the wound with a moistened piece of gauze to reduce bleeding.
- If the bleeding does not stop, visit the emergency room. Apply pressure to the wound until you are treated.
Questions about an injured or damaged tooth? Contact your Naperville dentists at Sherman Oaks right away. Remember, immediate action is the key to saving a tooth.