Dental emergencies can be stressful, but acting quickly often makes the difference between saving and losing a tooth. Call our office right away so we can advise you and arrange to see you as soon as possible.
Knocked-out tooth: pick it up by the crown, not the root. If it is dirty, rinse it gently with milk or water. Try to place it back in the socket, or keep it in a cup of milk and come in within the hour.
Broken or chipped tooth: rinse your mouth with warm water, save any pieces and use a cold compress on your cheek to reduce swelling.
Severe toothache: rinse with warm salt water, gently floss to remove anything caught between your teeth and take an over-the-counter pain reliever as directed. Do not put aspirin directly on the gum.
If you have heavy bleeding that will not stop, swelling that affects your breathing or swallowing, or a facial injury, go to the nearest hospital emergency department.