Dental Emergency Guide
Emergency
Emergency /
What to Do
What You Should Do
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Call Dentist Within 24 Hours
Abcess
An abscess is a serious infection that can sometimes appear as a pimple-like swollen area on your gums that can cause pain. If left untreated, this infection can spread throughout your entire body.
Broken Jaw
If you suspect a broken jaw, do not move it. Secure the jaw with a towel, necktie or scarf to the top of the head. To reduce pain and swelling, apply a cold compress and go to the nearest emergency room.
Chipped / Broken Tooth
Rinse any saved pieces with warm salt water. If there is bleeding from the tooth, hold moist gauze to the area with constant, gentle pressure and call immediately. Take a pain reliever as needed.
Knocked Out Tooth
EXTREMELY TIME SENSITIVE. Hold the tooth by the crown and rinse if dirty. Do not scrub or remove any attached tissue. If possible, return it to the socket and hold in place with gauze. If not, put tooth in container with milk or salt water. Do not let the tooth dry out. The highest rate of success in restoring the tooth is within 30 minutes.
Bleeding Gums
Bleeding gums are a sign of infection along your gum line. This infection can cause tooth and bone loss, as well as affect your overall health. If your gums bleed when brushing or flossing your teeth, call us for an appointment.
Broken Braces Wire
If the broken wire is poking your cheek, tooth or gum, cover the end of the wire with orthodontic wax or a small cotton ball until it can be repaired and put back into place.
Crown Dislodged
If possible apply over-the-counter dental cement or denture adhesive to the inside of the crown and slip it back over the tooth. Never use super glue on a crown. If no adhesive is available, keep the crown in a safe place and bring it to your appointment. Do not place the crown back on the tooth without any cement.
Cut Lip or Tongue
Thoroughly rinse mouth with warm salt water. Using moist gauze, apply pressure to the bleeding area for 15-20 minutes. To relieve pain and control swelling, hold a cold compress to the outside of your mouth. If bleeding does not stop, go to the nearest emergency room.
Lost Filling
Rinse mouth with warm water. Eat soft foods to avoid further damage to the tooth. Take pain reliever as needed.
Toothache
Use dental floss to remove any food lodged between teeth. If swollen, apply cold compress to outside of mouth or cheek. Take a pain reliever until you can see us.