First Aid
Knocked Out Baby Tooth
Once lost, baby teeth should not be put back into the mouth as it may possibly damage the growing permanent tooth. However, it is important to make sure no other teeth have been injured. Contact our office promptly.
Knocked Out Permanent Tooth
Find the tooth. Handle the tooth by the top (crown), not the root portion. You may gently rinse the tooth, but do not clean or handle the tooth unnecessarily. Try to reinsert it in the socket. Have the child hold the tooth in place by biting on a clean gauze or cloth. If you cannot reinsert the tooth, transport the tooth in a cup containing milk or water. Contact our office immediately. Time is a critical factor in saving the tooth.
Toothache
Clean the area around the tooth thoroughly. Rinse the mouth with warm salt water or use floss to remove any trapped food or debris. If the face is swollen, apply a cold compress or ice wrapped in cloth. Do not put heat or aspirin on the sore area. Take the appropriate dose of Tylenol, Motrin, or Advil for pain and call our office to schedule an appointment.
Broken Tooth
Rinse dirt from the injured area with warm water. Apply a cold compress if there is swelling. Locate and save any broken tooth fragments. Immediate action may save the tooth, prevent infection, as well as reduce the need for extensive treatment. Contact our office immediately.
Possible Jaw Fracture
Try to keep the jaw from moving by using a towel or handkerchief. Go directly to the nearest hospital emergency room.
Cold/Canker Sores
Many children occasionally suffer from these sores. Since these sores usually take 1-2 week to resolve, over-the-counter medications can give temporary relief. It these sores persist, a dental evaluation might be needed to rule out any systemic diseases.
Broken Braces and Wires
If a broken appliance can be removed easily, take it out. If it cannot, cover the sharp or protruding portion with cotton balls, gauze or orthodontic wax.
Take the child to their orthodontist or pediatric dentist. Loose/broken appliances which do not bother the child do not usually require emergency attention.