TOOTHACHE:

Begin by gently, but thoroughly, cleaning the sore tooth and the surrounding tissues. Warm salt water rinses, flossing may help displace any food trapped between the teeth. In the event of facial swelling, you can apply a cold compress to the area. For temporary pain relief, acetaminophen or ibuprofen is recommended. See a dentist as soon as possible.

CUT OR BITTEN TONGUE, LIP OR CHEEK:

Ice can be applied to any bruised areas. For bleeding, apply firm, but gentle, pressure with clean cloth or gauze. If the bleeding does not discontinue after 15 minutes, contact your dentist or seek emergency care.

BROKEN TOOTH:

Rinse the area with warm water. Put a cold compress over the facial area of injury. Recover any broken tooth fragments. Call your dentist immediately.

KNOCKED OUT PERMANENT TOOTH:

Time is of the essence in this situation. Recover the tooth and try to avoid touching the root surface. Hold the tooth by the crown, instead. Rinse the tooth VERY GENTLY if it seems contaminated, DO NOT wipe or handle the tooth unnecessarily. Reinsert the tooth in the socket and hold it in place by having the patient bite a clean piece of gauze or cloth. If the tooth cannot be reinserted, carry it in a cup containing milk or the patient's own saliva. Contact your dentist immediately.

BROKEN BRACES AND WIRES:

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. Contact your orthodontist, or your dentist immediately. Emergency treatment is usually not required for loose or broken appliances that are causing no discomfort.

POSSIBLE BROKEN JAW:

In the event of a severe blow to the chin, or any jaw injury, tie the mouth closed with a towel, tie or handkerchief tied around the patients head, supporting the chin. Go immediately to an emergency room.